Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Strategy Flashcards

A DEI initiative faces resistance from mid-level managers who see it as extra work. What is the best strategic response?

Answer: Engage managers early, show how DEI supports their team goals, and give them tools and support

Involving managers and linking DEI to their goals turns potential resistors into implementers.

Research shows that one-time, mandatory diversity training on its own tends to:

Answer: Have limited lasting impact and can sometimes provoke backlash

Studies indicate training alone rarely changes behavior long-term without structural and accountability measures.

Which intervention most directly reduces bias in hiring decisions?

Answer: Structured interviews with standardized questions and scoring rubrics

Structured interviews apply consistent criteria to all candidates, limiting subjective bias.

The concept of 'covering,' as described by Kenji Yoshino, refers to:

Answer: Downplaying a stigmatized identity to fit into mainstream norms at work

Covering is the effort individuals make to tone down aspects of their identity, which signals low inclusion.

Which is the most accurate description of psychological safety in an inclusive team?

Answer: A shared belief that team members can speak up, take risks, and admit mistakes without punishment

Amy Edmondson defines psychological safety as a shared belief that interpersonal risk-taking is safe.

A DEI strategy review shows strong initiatives but no measurable progress after two years. What should the CDO do first?

Answer: Evaluate each initiative's outcomes and stop or redesign those not driving results

Evaluating program effectiveness lets resources go to interventions that actually move outcomes.

Which principle of inclusive design best supports employees with disabilities in a DEI strategy?

Answer: Building accessibility into workplaces, technology, and processes from the start

Proactive accessibility removes barriers for everyone and reduces reliance on individual accommodation requests.