Should You Consider Outsourcing Diversity and Inclusion Training?

In today’s globalized business landscape, where talent and customers come from all corners of the world, nurturing a diverse and inclusive workforce isn’t just a moral imperative — it’s a strategic advantage. For many government agencies, the challenge lies in recognizing the importance of embedding diversity and inclusion into the fabric of their organizational culture. This is where outsourcing diversity and inclusion training can prove to be a game-changer.

Why Outsource Diversity and Inclusion Training?

Expertise and Specialization

Outsourcing diversity and inclusion training allows agencies to leverage external expertise. Training providers specializing in diversity and inclusion strategies come equipped with up-to-date research, methodologies, and best practices. They are adept at customizing programs that resonate with unique government environments and challenges.

Objectivity and Credibility

An external training provider brings an element of objectivity that might be difficult to achieve internally. They can offer unbiased insights into an agency’s culture and practices, acknowledging blind spots and existing biases that internal stakeholders might overlook.

Scalability and Accessibility

Outsourced training programs offer scalability to accommodate various group sizes, benefiting small and large agencies alike. Additionally, many training providers offer digital platforms and online resources, broadening the accessibility for various teams across different locations.

Cost-Effectiveness

While outsourcing has an upfront cost, these training programs can be more cost-effective over the long term. They can be more precisely tailored and require less internal administrative overhead, potentially preventing costly discrimination lawsuits or employee turnover due to unhealthy workplace culture.

Continuous Learning and Development

Introducing diversity and inclusion training is not a one-time event but an ongoing process. Outsourced partners can provide continuous learning and periodic refreshers that keep the topic at the forefront of employees’ minds, ensuring that the principles of diversity and inclusion are lived and breathed across all levels of the organization.

Making the Most of Outsourcing Diversity & Inclusion Training

To gain the maximum strategic benefit from outsourcing, organizations should:

Align Their Diversity Goals with Broader Business Objectives: Ensure that the outsourced training aligns with the agency’s mission, values, and strategic objectives. This ensures consistent messaging and integration into agency practices.
Measure Outcomes: Set clear metrics and goals to measure the impact of diversity and inclusion initiatives. This can include tracking participation rates, employee feedback, the impacts on recruitment and retention, and other relevant diversity indicators.
Foster Top-Down Commitment: Leadership buy-in is crucial. Executives championing diversity and participating actively in training set a positive example for all employees.
Integrate Training Into Broader HR Practices: Use the learning from outsourced training to inform recruitment, promotion and retention practices, reinforcing a holistic approach to diversity and inclusion.
Advocate Inclusivity Beyond Training Sessions: Encourage and empower employees to continue conversations and initiatives beyond formal training. Support diversity committees and employee resources groups to keep the momentum.

Outsourcing diversity and inclusion training presents a strategic opportunity for agencies to cultivate an empathic, inclusive and productive workplace. When done thoughtfully, it can lead not just to a harmonious work environment but also to enhanced innovation, broader reach and, ultimately, a solid customer experience.

Deadra Welcome is the Founder and Principal Consultant of Concerning Learning LLC., where she elevates workplace culture by focusing on team cohesion, diversity and inclusion, and leadership development. Using a unique blend of instructional design, facilitation, and coaching techniques, Deadra creates tailored solutions for improved organizational performance. Using her 27 years of federal government service and nearly 30 years in the culture and performance industry, she strives to make learning extraordinary and create spaces where everyone belongs and thrives. www.concerninglearningLLC.com