REPEAL OF DEI: DON'T LET YOUR VALUE PROPOSITION TAKE A HIT AFTER A JOB TERMINATION (C) 2025 Wayne D. Lewis, SR.

March 9, 2025

Using Microsoft' Co-pilot AI, I posed the following question for discussion:

Question: What are 10 possible points where a terminated employee expresses their value proposition as a result of the repeal of DEI policies?

Answer: Sure, here are 10 possible points a terminated employee could express in their value proposition as a result of the repeal of DEI policies, bearing in mind that some workplaces may still be recovering from the requirement to rescind any reference to DEI policies. Tread lightly.

1. Commitment to Diversity: Highlight your dedication to fostering diversity and inclusion in the workplace, which aligns with the values of many forward-thinking organizations.

2. Unique Perspective: Emphasize the unique perspectives and experiences you bring to the table, which can drive innovation and creativity within a team.

3. Leadership in the most innovative Initiatives: Showcase your experience in leading and supporting best practices and demonstrating your ability to promote a positive and inclusive work environment. Even though it has been repealed, consider emphasizing the valued relations gained and that are still relevant regarding diversity, equity and inclusion.

4. Resilience and Adaptability: Describe how your experience with the termination has made you more resilient and adaptable, qualities that are highly valued in any organization.

5. Cultural Competency: Highlight your ability to work effectively with people from diverse backgrounds, which can enhance team dynamics and contribute to a more inclusive workplace culture.

6. Advocacy Skills: Emphasize your skills in advocating for underrepresented groups, which can be an asset in promoting equity and fairness within an organization.

7. Improved Employee Morale: Discuss your efforts in improving employee morale and engagement through the former DEI initiatives, leading to a more motivated and productive workforce.

8. Problem-Solving Abilities: Showcase your problem-solving abilities in addressing DEI-related challenges, demonstrating your capability to navigate complex issues and find effective solutions.

9. Building Inclusive Policies: Highlight your experience in developing and implementing inclusive policies and practices that benefit all employees, fostering a sense of belonging and equality.

10. Commitment to Continuous Learning: Emphasize your commitment to continuous learning and staying updated on various related best practices, ensuring that you bring the latest knowledge and strategies to your next role.

"These points can help a terminated employee demonstrate their value and the positive impact they can have on an organization, even in the face of changing DEI policies."

These 10 suggestions may or may not benefit you. There are some suggestions that may even concern you given the fact that several buzz words may scare a possible employer off.

Question: Let's ask Co-Pilot AI if there are certain buzzwords we should be aware of during the interview process since the repeal of DEI Initiatives

Answer: Yes, certain buzzwords might be best to avoid since the repeal of DEI initiatives, especially during professional and public communications. Here are some terms that could be sensitive or controversial in this context:

1. Diversity

2. Equity

3. Inclusion

4. Bias

5. Discrimination

6. Cultural Competency

7. Gender Equality

8. LGBTQ+

9. Affirmative Action

10. Social Justice

The above terms may be flagged or scrutinized more closely in environments where DEI initiatives have been repealed and impacted. It's important to be mindful of the context and audience when discussing topics relating to diversity, equity, and inclusion during the recruiting process.

If you need help navigating these changes or crafting alternative language, seek help through AI, or a Human Resources professional!

Focus on Your Value Proposition More than the DEI Buzzwords

Don't let those words frighten you. What you should be more concerned about is your Value Proposition. If you don't have one, consider the two links below. There are others to discover if you just put the search term: Developing my personal proposition in the search engine. You may need to follow several links before you find the one that right for you.

1. The Value Proposition Canvas a Youtube example
2. How to Create Effective Value Position

Incorporate Your Value Proposition At Every Opportunity

After you have updated your resume, jump on familiarizing yourself with your Value Proposition. Two reasons:

1. If you are applying for a position for which you are highly qualified, but it is still a competitive position, focus on something unique that only you, as far as you know of are capable of playing a specific role in the final outcome.
2. If you still have not reached that point in your career where you have excelled, work to develop your Value Proposition. Perhaps with a recruiter, suggest that you were in the midst of taking your skill sets to the next level before you were terminated and would appreciate an opportunity to continue with them. Even though you asking for an employment position, you are also coming from a position of contribution. Be sure that your future employer is aware that you are not looking to take over their company. You are not a globalist unless they need you to be. Be flexible. It is possible that your interview session could open up new opportunities that you had not dreamed of before. Hold on and hang on for the ride!

To incorporate your Value Proposition is to work it into every interview session, even if you are applying for housekeeper, gardner, or executive chef. Don't try to steal the floor or the recruiter's thunder as a recruiter. Give them the opportunity to take a small piece at a time. Include relative examples along the way.

In closing out an interview, be sure to add that you are available to share more of your Value Proposition and how what you have to gain can not only benefit you but everyone with whom you are partnered. The point here is, regardless of how you were DEI, layoffs, restructuring, or you just needed a change, your Value Proposition should be an unmistakable asset to you and your future employer.

Disclosure: I am not the owner of any of the materials in the links. I am not receiving any paid endorsements. No information provided here should be considered as legal or medical information. If you are in need of legal advice, please consult an attorney.

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