Everyone is interested in diversity lately
Why? Because the economy has turned around. When business is slow we lay people off and hold off promoting people. Indications are that this has disadvantaged our diverse (women, minorities) groups more. I have seen this as more and more of my clients have asked me about the “diversity issue” in recent weeks. I just read a recent report from PAR (Project for Attorney Retention in DC) that seems to confirm that we have taken a step backward.
“San Francisco, June 3, 2011 – There is not a lot to celebrate when it comes to the gender composition of the new partner classes. According to a survey of the new partner class of 2011 released by the Project for Attorney Retention (PAR), law firms slid two percentage points in promotions of their women attorneys since last year, 32% compared to 34% in 2010.” http://attorneyretention.org/
When the economy improves, we get back on track with our diversity initiatives so this year many organizations have a lot of catching up to do. How do they catch-up? Give an extra “leg up” to your diverse groups by coaching them as individuals and in teams. Figure out what these people need to do to be promoted and give them a coach to help them close that gap. Then take a leap of faith and put them in the more senior job. The coach can help them be successful even if they have a few gaps. There are few better uses of coaching.
Posted by Sandra Oliver on June 20, 2011
Leadership, Strategy Development & Execution, Workplace Issues
