You may think that your workplace has nothing to do with the Black Lives Matter movement. But business leaders recognize that outside issues can impact the workplace.
“Credible leaders aren’t neutral about George Floyd, racism or inequality,” says Terina Allen writing for Forbes. Her piece, 5 Conversations Credible Leaders Must Have in This Moment (Forbes.com June 4, 2020), introduces fundamental actions that active leaders should take at this point in history, including listening to impacts on employees and executives and taking a strong stance on racism.
Several thought leaders published guidance following Floyd’s death, including:
- George Floyd and the Rule of 88 (Steve Priest). Priest notes that a minority of people (“Saints”) will always do the right thing, while a smaller group will typically do the wrong thing. Ethics programs need to focus on the 88% of people who will do the right thing if it’s “not too inconvenient.” Leaders will encourage and lift this sector of the workforce.
- The Business Ethics of Black Lives Matter (pryor.com). Pryor Learning urges business leaders to take this moment to look deeply at equity in their workplaces. Objectively speaking, who receives coaching and opportunities in your company? How and where do you recruit? A careful review of HR policies may reveal areas for improvement.
- Why Black Lives Matter Should Spur Workplace Diversity and Inclusion Efforts (bizjournals.com). African-American CEO Jacquay Henderson discusses systemic issues that reduce workplace diversity, particularly in STEM fields. Because research shows that diverse workplaces perform better, addressing systemic racism is critical for business success.
BERC will continue to feature thought leadership on this and other ethics issues raised in the public sphere.
Recent Comments