{"id":13996,"date":"2025-03-13T14:55:47","date_gmt":"2025-03-13T18:55:47","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/thediversitymovement.com\/?p=13996"},"modified":"2025-03-13T14:56:04","modified_gmt":"2025-03-13T18:56:04","slug":"erg-best-practices-how-executive-sponsors-drive-impact-inclusion","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/thediversitymovement.com\/erg-best-practices-how-executive-sponsors-drive-impact-inclusion\/","title":{"rendered":"ERG Best Practices: How Executive Sponsors Drive Impact and Inclusion"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><button id=\"listenButton1\" class=\"responsivevoice-button\" type=\"button\" value=\"Play\" title=\"ResponsiveVoice Tap to Start\/Stop Speech\"><span>&#128266; Listen to this article<\/span><\/button>\n        <script>\n            listenButton1.onclick = function(){\n                if(responsiveVoice.isPlaying()){\n                    responsiveVoice.cancel();\n                }else{\n                    responsiveVoice.speak(\"Employee-led groups should be a cornerstone of any organization\u2019s employee engagement strategy. A proven way to increase\u00a0workplace belonging and retention, employee resource groups (ERGs)\u00a0also drive business outcomes, helping organizations expand their market reach and innovate new products. \u00a0 Often included in diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) strategies, ERGs have such a powerful impact on the bottom line that top companies are continuing to invest in employee groups, even as their DEI programs face scrutiny. For example, Toyota recently scaled back several workplace diversity programs but affirmed its support of its Business Partnering Groups (BPGs), which it describes as fostering an \u201cinclusive environment where diversity of thought can flourish.\u201d\u00a0 ERGs promote employee engagement, strengthen workplace culture, and provide crucial insights that drive business innovation. And, at the heart of every high-functioning ERG is an engaged and committed executive sponsor.\u00a0\u00a0 How does an active executive sponsor help ERGs be successful? These sponsors, typically members of the executive team, act as advocates for both the ERG and the broader DEI initiatives within an organization. More than symbolic figures, they provide strategic guidance, advocate for funding or resources, and act as a vital link between ERG members and senior leadership. Without a dedicated advocate in leadership, ERGs can struggle to gain traction and achieve their objectives.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cAn executive sponsor can amplify who you are, what you\\'re doing, and any events that the ERG is having. They are a throughline to the rest of the executive team and any teams that they lead,\u201d says Susie Silver, Director of Client Success for The Diversity Movement, a Workplace Options company.\u00a0 Ashley Estes, Head of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging at Subaru of America, notes that executive sponsors play a pivotal role in driving ERG participation. Promoting the business value and importance of ERGs is especially crucial in organizations that are new to employee-led groups.\u00a0 Our executives promote the ERGs as really, really important for our workplace culture,\u201d she says. \u201cIf you start that way, people will associate the ERGs as legitimate, and they\u2019re not just interest groups that put on events. There\u2019s so much more to it, and the executive teams value those who step up to be leaders of these ERGs. How to be an Effective Executive Sponsor Selecting an executive sponsor typically involves input from the DEI Council, the ERG committee, and the group\u2019s previous executive sponsor. The individual should have a genuine passion for the ERG\u2019s mission, even if they don\u2019t have a direct connection to the community. A well-matched sponsor fosters authentic relationships with ERG members, making advocacy more meaningful. An effective sponsor should also have enough influence within the company to secure resources and break down barriers that might hinder ERG progress.\u00a0 The individual should also be able to commit to the responsibilities of the role, which often include the following duties:\u00a0 Ensure the group\u2019s activities remain aligned with company priorities and monitor the revenue impact. Data points like retention numbers, promotion rates, and innovation outcomes should be measured and tracked.\u00a0 Support ERG initiatives. For example, the executive sponsor could help the ERG secure funding and\/or encourage other executives to participate in ERG-sponsored activities.\u00a0\u00a0 Help ERG members break down organizational barriers and foster cross-departmental collaboration\u00a0 Hold the ERG accountable for progress toward goals\u00a0 Raise the visibility of the ERG across the company and among executive leadership\u00a0\u00a0 Provide informal coaching and mentorship to the ERG leader and its members\u00a0 Attend ERG meetings\u00a0 Serve for a specific term and assist in identifying their successor\u00a0 How does sponsoring an ERG help the executive leader? Beyond supporting ERGs, executive sponsorship creates a ripple effect across the company. When an organization\u2019s executive team lacks the element of diversity that an employee-led group represents, having a strong ally in leadership can send an emphatic message about the company\u2019s commitment to equity and inclusion. In addition, being exposed to different perspectives can help sponsors grow personally and professionally.\u00a0 As executive sponsor of his company\u2019s Pride employee resource group Dan Martin, Vice President of Marketing at DHI Group, was able to gain buy-in from the executive team and help the employee-led group achieve several of its goals. But Martin\u2019s most significant takeaway is what he learned from the Pride Impact Group members.\u00a0 Learning the obstacles individuals are facing just at work was staggering, not to mention what they are experiencing in their personal lives,\u201d he says. \u201cThe members of the LGBTQIA+ community have taught me so much, and to have the chance to give something \u2013 anything \u2013 back to them is a responsibility I don\u2019t take lightly. Executive sponsors play an essential role in the success of employee resource groups. Their engagement helps drive membership, ensures strategic alignment, and provides ERGs with the support needed to break down organizational barriers. In return, businesses benefit from a more engaged workforce, stronger leadership pipelines, and a company culture that attracts and retains top talent.\u00a0 For organizations looking to build or strengthen their ERG programs, encouraging active executive sponsorship is a best practice and a business imperative.\u00a0 Download The Employee Resource Group Toolkit for more ERG best practices that can help your organization maintain employee-led groups, drive organizational objectives, and help cultivate a more inclusive workplace. ERG experts and business leaders offer practical insights during our Employee Resource Group (ERG) Summit, available now on demand.\u00a0\u00a0 Amber Keister is a Content Strategist at The Diversity Movement. She has spent more than 20 years as a journalist for publications throughout the South. Connect with her on Linkedin.\", \"US English Male\");\n                }\n            };\n        <\/script>\n    <\/br><br \/>\n<span data-contrast=\"auto\">Employee-led groups should be a cornerstone of any organization\u2019s employee engagement strategy. A proven way to increase\u00a0workplace belonging and retention, <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/thediversitymovement.com\/what-is-employee-resource-group-answers-to-5-common-questions-about-ergs-brgs-affinity-groups\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">employee resource groups<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> (ERGs)\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">also drive business outcomes, helping organizations expand their market reach and innovate new products. <\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Often included in diversity,<\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\"> equity, and inclusion (DEI) strategies, ERGs have such a powerful impact on the bottom line that top companies are continuing to invest in employee groups, even as their DEI programs face scrutiny. <\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">For example, <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.hrgrapevine.com\/us\/content\/article\/2024-10-08-toyota-joins-the-naysayers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Toyota<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> recently scaled back several workplace diversity programs but affirmed its support of its Business Partnering Groups (BPGs), which it describes as fostering an \u201cinclusive environment where diversity of thought can flourish.\u201d<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-13997 size-large lazyload\" data-src=\"https:\/\/thediversitymovement.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/iStock-1346125239-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"Group of mixed race business people discussing work in conference room. Senior business manager guiding employees in meeting. Group of businessman and businesswoman working together while brainstorming and sharing new ideas and strategy.\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/thediversitymovement.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/iStock-1346125239-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/thediversitymovement.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/iStock-1346125239-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/thediversitymovement.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/iStock-1346125239-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/thediversitymovement.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/iStock-1346125239-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/thediversitymovement.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/iStock-1346125239-2048x1365.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/thediversitymovement.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/iStock-1346125239-600x400.jpg 600w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 1024px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 1024\/683;\" \/><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">ERGs promote <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.shrm.org\/resourcesandtools\/hr-topics\/benefits\/pages\/employee-resource-groups-create-a-sense-of-belonging.aspx\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">employee engagement<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">, strengthen workplace culture, and provide crucial insights that drive business innovation. And, at the heart of every high-functioning ERG is an engaged and committed executive sponsor.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h2>How does an active executive sponsor help ERGs be successful?<\/h2>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">These sponsors, typically members of the executive team, act as advocates for both the ERG and the broader DEI initiatives within an organization. More than symbolic figures, they provide strategic guidance, advocate for funding or resources, and act as a vital link between ERG members and senior leadership. Without a dedicated advocate in leadership, ERGs can struggle to gain traction and achieve their objectives.\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u201cAn executive sponsor can amplify who you are, what you&#8217;re doing, and any events that the ERG is having. They are a throughline to the rest of the executive team and any teams that they lead,\u201d says Susie Silver, Director of Client Success for The Diversity Movement, a Workplace Options company.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/ashleyestes916\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Ashley Estes<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">, Head of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging at Subaru of America, notes that executive sponsors play a pivotal role in driving ERG participation. Promoting the business value and importance of ERGs is especially crucial in organizations that are new to employee-led groups.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<blockquote><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Our executives promote the ERGs as really, really important for our workplace culture,\u201d she says. \u201cIf you start that way, people will associate the ERGs as legitimate, and they\u2019re not just interest groups that put on events. There\u2019s so much more to it, and the executive teams value those who step up to be leaders of these ERGs.<\/span><\/p><\/blockquote>\n<h2>How to be an Effective Executive Sponsor<\/h2>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-13998 size-large lazyload\" data-src=\"https:\/\/thediversitymovement.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/iStock-2060934958-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"ERG best practices\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/thediversitymovement.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/iStock-2060934958-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/thediversitymovement.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/iStock-2060934958-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/thediversitymovement.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/iStock-2060934958-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/thediversitymovement.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/iStock-2060934958-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/thediversitymovement.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/iStock-2060934958-2048x1365.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/thediversitymovement.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/iStock-2060934958-600x400.jpg 600w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 1024px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 1024\/683;\" \/><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Selecting an executive sponsor typically involves input from the DEI Council, the ERG committee, and the group\u2019s previous executive sponsor. The individual should have a genuine passion for the ERG\u2019s mission, even if they don\u2019t have a direct connection to the community. A well-matched sponsor fosters authentic relationships with ERG members, making advocacy more meaningful. An effective sponsor should also have enough influence within the company to secure resources and break down barriers that might hinder ERG progress.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:279}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">The individual should also be able to commit to the responsibilities of the role, which often include the following duties:<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<ol>\n<li><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Ensure the group\u2019s activities remain aligned with company priorities and monitor the revenue impact. Data points like retention numbers, promotion rates, and innovation outcomes should be measured and tracked.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Support ERG initiatives. For example, the executive sponsor could help the ERG secure funding and\/or encourage other executives to participate in ERG-sponsored activities.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Help ERG members break down organizational barriers and foster cross-departmental collaboration<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Hold the ERG accountable for progress toward goals<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Raise the visibility of the ERG across the company and among executive leadership\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Provide informal coaching and mentorship to the ERG leader and its members<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Attend ERG meetings<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Serve for a specific term and assist in identifying their successor<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<h2>How does sponsoring an ERG help the executive leader?<\/h2>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-13999 size-large lazyload\" data-src=\"https:\/\/thediversitymovement.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/iStock-2152910258-1024x540.jpg\" alt=\"Senior, woman or business people in meeting with talking in teamwork for creative decision making. Collaboration, manager or professional employees with paperwork for project brainstorming in office\" width=\"1024\" height=\"540\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/thediversitymovement.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/iStock-2152910258-1024x540.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/thediversitymovement.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/iStock-2152910258-300x158.jpg 300w, https:\/\/thediversitymovement.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/iStock-2152910258-768x405.jpg 768w, https:\/\/thediversitymovement.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/iStock-2152910258-1536x810.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/thediversitymovement.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/iStock-2152910258-2048x1080.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/thediversitymovement.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/iStock-2152910258-600x316.jpg 600w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 1024px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 1024\/540;\" \/><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Beyond supporting ERGs, executive sponsorship creates a ripple effect across the company. When an organization\u2019s executive team lacks the element of diversity that an employee-led group represents, having a strong ally in leadership can send an emphatic message about the company\u2019s commitment to equity and inclusion. In addition, being exposed to different perspectives can help sponsors grow personally and professionally.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">As executive sponsor of his company\u2019s Pride employee resource group <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/tdmlibrary.thediversitymovement.com\/ask-the-expert-creating-an-inclusive-community-through-curiosity-and-vulnerability\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Dan Martin<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">, Vice President of Marketing at DHI Group, was able to gain buy-in from the executive team and help the employee-led group achieve several of its goals. But Martin\u2019s most significant takeaway is what he learned from the Pride Impact Group members.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:279}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<blockquote><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Learning the obstacles individuals are facing just at work was staggering, not to mention what they are experiencing in their personal lives,\u201d he says. \u201cThe members of the LGBTQIA+ community have taught me so much, and to have the chance to give something \u2013 anything \u2013 back to them is a responsibility I don\u2019t take lightly.<\/span><\/p><\/blockquote>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Executive sponsors play an essential role in the success of employee resource groups. Their engagement helps drive membership, ensures strategic alignment, and provides ERGs with the support needed to break down organizational barriers. In return, businesses benefit from a more engaged workforce, stronger leadership pipelines, and a company culture that attracts and retains top talent.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">For organizations looking to build or strengthen their ERG programs, encouraging active executive sponsorship is a best practice and a business imperative.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><strong>Download <a href=\"https:\/\/thediversitymovement.com\/employee-resource-group-toolkit\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">The Employee Resource Group Toolkit<\/a> for more ERG best practices that can help your organization maintain employee-led groups, drive organizational objectives, and help cultivate a more inclusive workplace. ERG experts and business leaders offer practical insights during our <a href=\"https:\/\/thediversitymovement.com\/event\/2024-employee-resource-group-erg-summit\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Employee Resource Group (ERG) Summit<\/a>, available now on demand.\u00a0\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><em><a href=\"https:\/\/thediversitymovement.com\/team\/amber-keister\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><b>Amber Keister<\/b><\/a> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">is a Content Strategist at The Diversity Movement. She has spent more than 20 years as a journalist for publications throughout the South. Connect with her on <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/amberkeister\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Linkedin<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Employee-led groups should be a cornerstone of any organization\u2019s employee engagement strategy. A proven way to increase\u00a0workplace belonging and retention, employee resource groups (ERGs)\u00a0also drive business outcomes, helping organizations expand15<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":13,"featured_media":13997,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[66,62],"tags":[],"tdm_type":[92],"class_list":["post-13996","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-employee-resource-groups","category-inclusive-leadership","tdm_type-articles"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v25.5 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/wordpress\/plugins\/seo\/ -->\n<title>How ERG Executive Sponsors Drive Impact and Inclusion<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Strong ERG executive sponsorship is key to success. 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