As Black History Month arrives, organizations have an opportunity to not only reflect on the contributions of Black Americans but also take meaningful action toward creating inclusive workplaces. While celebrations, panels, and events are important, the real impact comes from implementing systemic changes.
Here are three actionable steps your organization can take to honor Black History Month and demonstrate commitment year-round.
1. Onboard a Performance Platform—Support Black-Owned Solutions Like Aerodei
An engaging performance platform like Aerodei, measures inclusive behaviors and aligns with business impact; like new customer acquisition, retention, RFP wins and more.
Why This Matters:
- Platforms like Aerodei bring lived experience and expertise into their design, offering tools that not only enhance performance management but also drive employee engagement for all.
Action Step:
- Partner with an inclusive performance platform that integrates seamlessly with your existing HRIS systems to ensure every employee has a fair opportunity to advance.
2. Conduct a Pay Audit to Ensure Pay Equity for Black Employees
Pay inequity remains a persistent issue in the workplace. Black employees are often underpaid compared to their peers of other races and genders. A pay audit allows organizations to uncover disparities and take corrective action.
Why This Matters:
- Pay equity promotes trust, enhances retention, and ensures fairness in how employees are compensated for their contributions.
Action Step:
- Conduct a comprehensive pay audit, analyzing salaries across roles, departments, and demographics. Use the results to adjust compensation and ensure Black-identifying employees are paid equitably.
3. Launch a Sponsorship Program for High-Performing Employees
Mentorship is valuable, but sponsorship takes it a step further by actively advocating for an employee’s career advancement. Sponsorship programs have a transformative impact on the career trajectories of Black employees, who are often underrepresented in leadership roles. Holistic Inclusion Consulting has helped many organizations launch successful sponsorship programs.
Why This Matters:
- A study by the Center for Talent Innovation found that employees with sponsors are 23% more likely to advance in their careers. However, Black employees are less likely to have sponsors compared to their peers.
Action Step:
- Identify high-performing employees and pair them with senior leaders who can sponsor their career growth. Sponsors should use their influence to advocate for promotions, assignments, and other opportunities that position these employees for success.
Make Black History Month a Catalyst for Long-Term Change
Black History Month is a call to action. Organizations that use this time to invest in systems that put people first, correct pay disparities, and champion the growth of talent set themselves apart as leaders.
By onboarding platforms like Aerodei, conducting pay audits, and launching sponsorship programs, you can create lasting impact that goes beyond February, fostering an environment where all employees can thrive.
What action will your organization commit to from the actions above? Let us know!
