Talking diversity & inclusion and workplace wellbeing with Chorus
May is diversity & inclusion month at Groov! We pass the mic to one of our customers, Chorus, to hear what it’s doing to champion diversity & inclusion and how this links to workplace wellbeing.
Chorus is in the midst of a cultural transformation. The telecommunications organisation is moving towards becoming more adaptive – and diversity & inclusion is a big part of this journey.
“We’re undergoing a full review and audit of our workplace culture,” says Sarah Archer, Head of Diversity & Inclusion at Chorus.
“We’re asking: how do we want to be as an organisation, instead of what is the purpose of our organisation? We’re taking a more holistic view and this includes making sure diversity & inclusion is embedded into the way we work.”
Diversity & inclusion at Chorus
Sarah acknowledges that diversity & inclusion can mean different things to different people. What does it mean for Chorus?
“I believe diversity & inclusion is about behaviours, values, and common decency,” says Sarah.
“People overcomplicate it, but really it’s about tapping into shared values. Regardless of our differences, most of us have values in common.”
Sarah also advocates for celebrating differences.
“At Chorus, we talk about differences as strengths. Don’t be afraid of having an unpopular opinion, as long as you can validate it. We need diversity of thought,” she explains.
Taking it one day at a time
Chorus is at the beginning of their diversity & inclusion journey – Sarah was appointed in September 2021 – but the organisation is already making good headway.
Sarah constantly reminds herself – and others – that it’s a long journey, but a very worthwhile one.
“Celebrate as you go because diversity & inclusion always takes a long time. Sometimes you feel as though you’re never going to get there, as there’s always so much more to do,” says Sarah.
“But keep going, and don’t over complicate it. Small and simple is fine.”
Diversity & inclusion and workplace wellbeing
Sarah says investing in workplace wellbeing through Groov is immensely helpful, as workplace wellbeing and diversity & inclusion go hand-in-hand.
“Employee wellbeing is enhanced when you have an inclusive culture, and vice versa. Individuals with good wellbeing are more inclusive, as are workplace cultures,” says Sarah.
Some good examples of initiatives that promote both D&I and wellbeing include flexibility in working environments and hours, a range of development and career opportunities, and opportunities for people to form connections in the workplace.
