What do you do if your Data Governance team lacks diversity and inclusion?

1 Why diversity and inclusion matter

Diversity and inclusion are not only ethical and social values, but also strategic and competitive advantages for data governance. A diverse and inclusive team can bring different perspectives, experiences, and skills to the table, which can enhance creativity, innovation, and problem-solving. A diverse and inclusive team can also better understand and serve the needs and preferences of diverse customers, stakeholders, and communities. Moreover, a diverse and inclusive team can foster a culture of trust, respect, and collaboration, which can improve morale, productivity, and retention.

2 How to assess your team's diversity and inclusion

Before you can take action to improve your team's diversity and inclusion, you need to assess the current state and identify the gaps and opportunities. You can start by collecting and analyzing data on your team's composition, such as gender, race, ethnicity, age, disability, education, and background. You can also survey your team members on their perceptions, experiences, and satisfaction with the team's culture, climate, and dynamics. You can use various tools and frameworks, such as the Diversity and Inclusion Maturity Model, to benchmark your team's performance and progress.

3 How to recruit and retain diverse talent

One of the key steps to improve your team's diversity and inclusion is to recruit and retain diverse talent. You can do this by expanding your sourcing channels, such as referrals, networks, events, and platforms, to reach out to underrepresented groups and communities. You can also review and revise your hiring criteria, processes, and practices, such as job descriptions, screening methods, and interview questions, to ensure they are fair, objective, and inclusive. Additionally, you can offer and promote career development opportunities, such as mentoring, coaching, training, and recognition, to support and retain your diverse talent.

4 How to foster an inclusive culture

Another important step to improve your team's diversity and inclusion is to foster an inclusive culture. You can do this by establishing and communicating clear values, norms, and expectations for your team's behavior, such as respect, empathy, and openness. You can also encourage and facilitate dialogue, feedback, and learning among your team members, such as through regular meetings, surveys, and workshops. Furthermore, you can celebrate and leverage your team's diversity, such as by acknowledging and rewarding contributions, sharing and showcasing success stories, and creating and participating in diverse events and activities.

5 How to measure and monitor your outcomes

The final step to improve your team's diversity and inclusion is to measure and monitor your outcomes. You can do this by defining and tracking key metrics and indicators, such as diversity ratios, retention rates, engagement scores, and customer satisfaction. You can also collect and analyze qualitative data, such as testimonials, case studies, and best practices. Additionally, you can review and report your results, such as by creating and sharing dashboards, reports, and presentations. Moreover, you can use your findings to identify and implement improvements, such as by setting and revising goals, actions, and plans.

6 How to get help and support

Improving your team's diversity and inclusion is not a one-time or isolated effort, but a continuous and collaborative process. You may encounter challenges, barriers, and resistance along the way, which can require additional help and support. You can seek and access various resources and opportunities, such as online courses, webinars, podcasts, and books, to learn and update your knowledge and skills on diversity and inclusion. You can also network and collaborate with other data governance professionals, such as through communities, forums, and groups, to exchange ideas, insights, and experiences on diversity and inclusion.