How do ERGs benefit employees?

A thriving ERG should create both personal and professional development opportunities for its members. These include both- 

Personal:

• A way to find and build community across the organization

• A space to learn about people with different backgrounds/life experiences and practice allyship

• A safe space to share experiences, find solidarity among coworkers, and discuss shared challenges

• An avenue to elevate the voices of others

Professional:

• A way to network with peers and managers from different departments and locations

• The opportunity to contribute to discussions and projects that fall outside of your typical job responsibilities

• A supportive environment to develop and showcase leadership skills 

What is the Business Case for ERGs?

Currently, 90% of Fortune 500 companies have ERGs, and around 9% of U.S.-based employees belong to an ERG. When formally supported by the organization, the best ERGs can benefit a company in - 

The Workplace through:

• Improved Recruitment, Retention, and Engagement

• Support for Equitable Business Development

• Building a Resilient Workforce

The Marketplace through:

• Community Service events

• Raising Cultural Awareness

• Building Relationships with Community Partners

Employee Resource Groups at Fleet Feet do:

• Build community and encourage a culture of belonging and inclusivity

• Provide opportunities to develop and show leadership skills

• Educate others about issues their communities face and how to help elevate those issues

• Mitigate the threat of silos developing by allowing people to collaborate with others across different departments

• Advance awareness of employee needs

• Support innovation by providing insights on new markets, product development, and multicultural marketing, while enhancing Fleet Feet's reputation in the marketplace 

Employee Resource Groups do not:

• Engage in any activity that is inconsistent with Fleet Feet's mission or core values

• Exclude employees from participating in meetings or activities

• Form or evolve to oppose other groups

• Engage in discriminatory conduct on any basis

• Promote specific political, religious, or ideological views, agendas, or causes

• Engage in political activities, make political or legislative endorsements, or promote candidates for public office (individuals can pursue political activities outside of Fleet Feet) 

• Engage in fundraising activities, either internally or externally, without advance approval

• Participate in any collective bargaining activities (i.e., salary, work hours, benefits, or any other term or condition of employment)