The Importance of Measuring Mindset in Achieving DE&I goals
Diversity, equity, and inclusion (DE&I) have become hot topics in the business world, and many companies have made strides to increase diversity within their organizations. However, one of the biggest problems with DE&I initiatives is the failure to recognize the capable people who are already within the company. A lack of understanding of mindset capabilities and biases can lead to over-disciplined and over-opportunistic mindsets in leadership positions, leaving many capable people in lower positions.
According to data on hundreds of thousands of people, it is surprising how many minorities and women are not in leadership positions already. This remains a disproportionate number relative to the leadership population. It is essential to understand that women and minorities have valuable mindset capabilities that are often overlooked. In many cases, companies struggling financially have leadership positions held by individuals with over-disciplined and over-opportunistic mindsets for extended periods. Meanwhile, many capable individuals from diverse backgrounds remain in lower positions, often with no clear pathway for advancement.
One of the biggest issues hindering the success of DE&I initiatives is the lack of measurement of mindset capabilities. Measuring mindset is a multi-dimensional process that requires a holistic understanding of the individual’s cognitive and emotional capabilities, including their ability to learn, adapt, innovate, and lead. However, most companies fail to recognize the complexities of mindset, while not realizing how easy it is to measure using remote mindset measurement capabilities. Not measuring leads to biased recruitment, promotion, and retention practices.
In conclusion, DE&I initiatives must recognize the importance of measuring mindset capabilities to achieve lasting success. Until the right way to measure people is in place, companies will continue to struggle with removing bias and achieving diversity, equity, and inclusion. Companies must embrace a holistic approach that recognizes the complexities of measuring mindset and fosters an inclusive environment where everyone can succeed.
What gets measured, will improve.