Top 3 DEI Trends for 2021

Brandon Hall Group’s 2020 COVID-19 Study suggests employers now “manage two realities—a revamped workplace and a still-evolving remote work environment.” Most organizations have taken an employee-centric approach to managing the pandemic, focusing heavily on engagement, well-being, inclusion, communication and safety.

The future of the workplace is still uncertain, but you can equip yourself for the year ahead by understanding and fulfilling employee expectations.

Here are our 3 top DEI predictions for 2021:

• Inclusive leadership: Employees and consumers will continue to look for business and brand allyship in matters of social justice. More than ever before, brands will need to continue to make a measurable social impact, rather than verbal commitments and performative shows of solidarity.

• Equitable workplace practices: Accessibility and remote work will continue to be a priority. This year, more than 75% of organizations say at least half their employees are working remotely. Among these employees working remotely, the most important people functions transitioning into the New Year include assessing and managing employee well-being, fostering an inclusive workplace and driving employee engagement.
• Employee well-being: Remote work and strategies to make it as productive as possible will be important, but it will be essential to focus on what matters most: the people. Employers must consider ways to avoid digital burnout and manage their team’s mental health amidst these difficult times.

2021 will be a year in which leadership of businesses, governments and other decision-makers will continue to be held accountable for their actions. Whether that be through ensuring employees are treated equitably and inclusively from home or by demanding they take a stance on issues that matter to them, leaders will be expected to contribute to a sustainable and accessible working sector for all.