CDE Employee Resource Groups & Affinity Networks

Question 1

What is the primary organizational purpose of an Employee Resource Group (ERG)?

Accepted Answer

To provide a voluntary, employee-led group that fosters inclusion, belonging, and professional development for shared identities

Answer

To replace HR functions in underrepresented communities

Answer

To manage compensation equity across demographic groups

Answer

To serve as a union substitute for minority employees

Question 2

Which of the following best describes the difference between an ERG and an affinity network?

Accepted Answer

The terms are often used interchangeably, though affinity networks may be broader and less formally structured than ERGs

Answer

Affinity networks are mandated by law; ERGs are voluntary

Answer

ERGs focus exclusively on social activities while affinity networks focus on advocacy

Answer

ERGs are open to all employees while affinity networks are restricted to specific groups

Question 3

An ERG charter typically includes all of the following EXCEPT:

Accepted Answer

Employee salary negotiation guidelines

Answer

Mission and vision statement

Answer

Membership eligibility criteria and leadership structure

Answer

Alignment with organizational DEI goals

Question 4

Which metric is most useful for evaluating the business impact of an ERG program?

Accepted Answer

Correlation between ERG participation and employee retention rates among members

Answer

Number of social events hosted per quarter

Answer

Total headcount of ERG members regardless of engagement

Answer

Frequency of ERG name changes over time

Question 5

What role should executive sponsors play in supporting ERGs?

Accepted Answer

Provide strategic advocacy, organizational visibility, and resource access for the ERG

Answer

Run day-to-day ERG operations and approve all programming

Answer

Ensure ERG membership is mandatory for senior employees

Answer

Audit ERG finances quarterly with no other involvement

Question 6

A Certified Diversity Executive wants to ensure ERGs advance organizational DEI goals rather than operate in silos. The best approach is to:

Accepted Answer

Establish an ERG council or coalition that coordinates strategy and shares resources across groups

Answer

Merge all ERGs into one unified group

Answer

Eliminate ERG autonomy by having HR control all programming

Answer

Limit ERGs to employee social functions only

Question 7

Which of the following is a recognized best practice when launching a new ERG?

Accepted Answer

Secure executive sponsorship and a formal charter before launch

Answer

Require at least 500 members before granting official status

Answer

Allow ERGs to operate without organizational guidelines to preserve autonomy

Answer

Assign ERG leadership roles solely based on seniority