Diversity and inclusion: corporate communications advances the practice

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to make the case that corporate communications (CorpComms) can and should play an important role in diversity and inclusion (D&I). The paper identifies a number of benefits from CorpComms becoming “invested” in D&I and several ways to help communicators advance from just “reporting” on diversity to becoming an engaged part of the effort.

Design/methodology/approach

This study offers perspectives and recommendations based on the author’s three decades in CorpComms, two decades of which have also included serving as a member on corporate diversity councils.

Findings

D&I is often viewed as human resources’ (HR’s) “job” rather than an integral part of everyone’s own work. Such a view risks limiting the success of D&I programs and that of departments and organizations. Nowhere is this more apparent than with CorpComms, a function that involves new and different ideas, active listening and articulating the authentic story of an organization – all activities that align with D&I. Becoming a committed part of the diversity effort can offer communicators new perspectives, fuller context, deeper understanding and the opportunity to give voice to people and ideas that otherwise might not be heard.

Originality/value

For a group of professionals who are animated by the meaningful connection among people, it is difficult to conceive of more affirming and essential work.

Citation

Pellecchia, R. (2019), "Diversity and inclusion: corporate communications advances the practice", Journal of Business Strategy, Vol. 40 No. 6, pp. 16-22. https://doi.org/10.1108/JBS-04-2019-0079