Diversity, Equity & Inclusion: How to assess an employers commitment

Wondering how to assess an employer’s commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion during your job search? Use the tips below to guide your research.

Reflect

• Brainstorm what you need to feel supported in your identity and in general
• Make a list of companies you’d be energized to work with, remembering to revisit your list often and prioritize as you go
• Feeling stuck? Do a Google search and look up the “top places to work.” For example: Best Places to Work by Glassdoor or Forbes’ America’s Best Large Employers

Research

• Learn more about the reputation of the employer through websites like Glassdoor or the “About Us” section of the company’s website
• Review the company’s social media – what they’re sharing, who is represented and who the company leaders are
• Check out the company’s website along with any available reports that provide insight into the employee experience
• Take note of any concerns from your research and make choices that align with your values

Network

• Hear from multiple perspectives. Reach out to multiple people – you can do it!
• Leverage connections by connecting with alumni and/or people who work within the industry or organization utilizing platforms such as LinkedIn, Handshake, or Husky Landing
• Be prepared to ask questions that will get you the answers you need – check out our resource on Informational Interviewing

Assess Their Commitment During Your Interview

• Evaluate their word in action – Is what they conveyed what you’re experiencing or observing?
• Note the thoughtfulness, rigor, honesty & authenticity of questions and responses in the interview.
• Ask directly about diversity and inclusion along with the way it’s experienced in action – Do people feel heard and valued?
• Learn more about the organization’s leadership, what they prioritize, and their ability to remodel values related to inclusion.

Find Your Community at UW and Beyond!

• Finding community through shared identity and affiliation can be a valuable place to build connection and support.
• Many companies demonstrate and support this by offering employee resource groups, mentorship programs, and more! Here are a few examples: Bain & Co. Affinity Groups, Microsoft Employee Resource Groups, and LinkedIn Employee Resource Groups.

Join an Interest Community

At the UW Career & Internship Center, we are dedicated to celebrating and supporting all facets of a student’s identity. One way we do so is through our Identity & Affiliation Communities! Subscribe to any of the communities with which you identify:

First Generation Students
Students of Color
LGBTQ+ Students
Undocumented/DACA Students
Transfer Students
Students with Disabilities
International Students
Student Veterans