What do you do if your fundraising team lacks diversity and inclusivity?

2 Set Goals

Once you've assessed the current state of your team, set clear and achievable goals for improving diversity and inclusivity. These goals should be specific, measurable, and time-bound. For example, you might aim to recruit team members from underrepresented groups or to implement training on unconscious bias within a certain timeframe. Goals give your team a target to work towards and help to ensure accountability. Make sure that these objectives are communicated clearly to the entire team and that everyone understands their role in achieving them.

3 Expand Outreach

To attract a more diverse pool of candidates for your fundraising team, you need to expand your outreach efforts. Look beyond your usual recruitment channels and consider partnerships with organizations that work with underrepresented groups. Attend career fairs at diverse institutions, and use social media platforms to reach a wider audience. Be mindful of the language and imagery you use in job postings to ensure they are welcoming to all. By casting a wider net, you increase the chances of attracting candidates with varied experiences and perspectives.

4 Foster Inclusion

Fostering an inclusive environment is just as important as diversifying your team. This means creating a space where all team members feel valued and empowered to contribute their best work. Encourage open dialogue and provide opportunities for team members to share their experiences and perspectives. Implement policies that promote equity, such as flexible working arrangements or mentorship programs. Recognize and celebrate cultural events and holidays that are important to your team members. By prioritizing inclusion, you'll not only retain diverse talent but also cultivate a richer, more creative fundraising environment.

5 Train & Educate

Training and education are key components in promoting diversity and inclusivity within your fundraising team. Provide regular training sessions on topics such as unconscious bias, cultural competency, and inclusive communication practices. Encourage team members to engage in continuous learning and to challenge their own assumptions and biases. Education can help build empathy and understanding among team members, leading to a more cohesive and effective team. Consider bringing in external experts to facilitate these sessions for a fresh perspective.

6 Evaluate Progress

Finally, it is crucial to regularly evaluate your progress towards achieving a more diverse and inclusive fundraising team. Set up mechanisms to track the changes in team composition and the effectiveness of inclusivity policies. Solicit feedback from team members about their experiences and perceptions of diversity and inclusion within the team. Use this information to adjust your strategies as needed. Continuous evaluation not only helps you measure success but also demonstrates a commitment to making ongoing improvements.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?