Follow the Leaders: How Rebranding DEI Drives Excellence at Top Firms

Throughout the past year, I've been talking and writing about cultural transformation and employee engagement, because inclusion-forward policies are an opportunity to achieve both employee well-being and financial success. I have seen firsthand how organizations that invest in empathetic leadership, inclusive communication, and human-centric policies have benefited across talent management, innovation and profitability. As we approach the holidays, I invite you to tune out the noise and consider what really drives business excellence.?

What’s New?

The Evolution of DEI: How Top Companies are Aligning Inclusion with Business Goals?

Recent headlines would have you believe that corporate America is no longer promoting diversity, equity and inclusion in the workplace. If you’re paying close attention, however, you’ll notice that successful companies aren’t backing away from their DEI goals. They are merely adjusting their culture-building (a.k.a. DEI) strategies to align with business goals. The terminology might be different, but these companies are doubling down on inclusion and belonging because they are seeing measurable bottom-line results.??

For example, Toyota is no longer participating in external surveys that track DEI benchmarks. Yet, the carmaker has affirmed its commitment to its Business Partnering Groups and other programs that foster an “inclusive environment where diversity of thought can flourish.” Also getting the green light are initiatives that align with business objectives: STEM education and workplace readiness. Market leading companies like JPMorgan Chase and BAYADA Home Healthcare are also investing in inclusion.??

DEI isn’t dead; top companies are just calling it something different.?

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Rebranding DEI and more Lessons from Top Companies: In this special episode of High Octane Leadership, I sit down with Amber Keister, a certified diversity executive and storytelling pro, to further explore how companies like Toyota and Ford are realigning DEI strategies to match their business objectives. We discuss how smart, pragmatic DEI creates engaged employees, loyal customers, and stronger bottom lines.??

Motivate employees with meaningful recognition: A winning team needs a solid roster of well-trained, high-quality players who can reliably deliver results. It’s up to leaders to ensure these consistent contributors are engaged and motivated to do their best work, because an engaged workforce helps organizations become more resilient, innovative and profitable. However, leaders often overlook an easy, low-cost way to get more from employees–meaningful, authentic recognition.??

Remember, downtime is crucial to success: As the holidays approach, it's a good time to remember the importance of disconnecting from work and being present with family. Many leaders struggle to leave their responsibilities and fully embrace time off. While it’s tempting to stay productive, making time to relax and recharge is essential to prevent burnout and boost creativity.?

Quick Hits?

• To meet the needs of HR professionals and people managers, my team recently launched the HR Toolkit. The new online content hub offers guidance and resources for today’s diverse, global workplace.?

• Professional coaching can give rising leaders a competitive edge, but the cost can be prohibitive. If your goals for 2025 include career advancement, here's how to improve your skills without breaking the bank.?

• Finally, I'd like to revisit one piece of advice from the past year: boost your success by adopting a growth mindset. This remains the most effective way to navigate change and win in business.?