How to Expand the Influence of Your Company’s ERGs

Elevate the impact of employee resource groups by engaging in thoughtfully crafted and measured social impact initiatives.

Employee resource groups (ERGs) are powerful organizational partners for creating fairer and more respectful work cultures. But did you know that the impact of ERGs can extend far beyond the boundaries of the workplace?

These groups can leverage their members’ collective knowledge, passion, and expertise to tackle a range of social issues: addressing disparities in healthcare, housing and food insecurity, advancing environmental sustainability, and beyond. By developing strategic partnerships with non-profit organizations and advocacy groups, establishing employee volunteering programs, and engaging in philanthropy and fundraising campaigns, they can mobilize people around a common cause to maximize impact.

At a time when the world seems increasingly divided and people feel isolated from each other, ERGs stand in stark contrast as they are calling people in to lend their time and effort toward social good.

Embark on a social impact initiative that elevates employee engagement and belonging, positions your ERG as an influential brand ambassador to external stakeholders, and aligns with your business’s environmental, social, and governance (ESG) goals.

But how can you get started?

Be laser-focused on outcomes. Pinpoint what you want to achieve, and why it would be important for your ERG to address that issue. Define what success looks like to you, crafting key performance indicators (KPIs) that you can track over time. Push beyond surface-level metrics, such as headcounts or donation amounts. Consider capturing the participant experience for these programs, as they present unique opportunities for upskilling and leadership development and can be incorporated into performance reviews and individual development plans. Hold ERG leaders accountable for monitoring and communicating progress to executive sponsors and senior leaders. Don’t be afraid to change course if your metrics are not adequately measuring impact.
Mobilize your people. Connect with senior leaders who are passionate about the issue and communicate opportunities to engage in this work across your internal platforms. Avoid working in silos by tapping other ERGs, departments, or stakeholder groups.
Remember that Catalyst is here to help. Our Supporter community and events like enERGize offer opportunities to connect and learn from your peers across organizations and industries. Check out our library of case studies of ERGs in action.

Remember, ERGs are catalyst for change. Let’s continue building impactful communities together!

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