Building Bridges Through Executive Allyship to Support LGBTQ+ Inclusion
Perficient’s PRISM Employee Resource Group (ERG) launched an initiative to engage senior leaders across Perficient in meaningful, visible LGBTQ+ allyship. The Executive Ally Program aims to connect leaders across Perficient with the PRISM community, fostering genuine relationships and creating spaces where every colleague feels seen, heard, and valued. With more than 7,000 colleagues worldwide, this program is a strategic effort to ensure allyship starts at the highest levels of leadership and cascades throughout the company.
The “Why” Behind the Program
Simply put, inclusive leadership drives better business outcomes. Research shows that workplaces that embrace diversity and inclusion attract broader talent pools, improve employee retention, and foster environments where everyone can thrive.
At Perficient, we believe that leaders who actively champion inclusion create stronger, more innovative teams. Through the Executive Ally Program, Perficient colleagues are leading this effort by engaging in open, authentic conversations with their leaders, helping to educate and inspire them to become executive allies.
How it Works
According to research by Harvard Business Review, members of the LGBTQ+ community defined being a good ally as having three main components: being accepting, taking action, and having humility. There is a phased strategy behind the Executive Ally Program to touch on each of these areas.
PRISM members can help identify and connect with leaders to be part of building a more inclusive and informed culture from the top-down. Here is an overview of how the program works:
- Grassroots Engagement: Colleagues are encouraged to have honest and productive dialogues with their business unit leaders about the importance of allyship.
- Equipping Leaders: Once leaders have signed up for the program, PRISM provides resources and training, including guides and research developed by reputable organizations. There is no prior expertise required, just a willingness to learn and grow.
- Pledge and Personal Commitment: Leaders who complete the curriculum will pledge to foster inclusive teams and personalize their allyship efforts. This could be as simple as adding pronouns to email signatures or displaying symbols of support.
PRISM recognizes that allyship is a journey. This program lays a solid foundation for leaders looking to increase the depth, breadth, and visibility of their allyship efforts. The program also addresses cultural nuances, aiming to scale inclusivity efforts across Perficient globally.
The inaugural cohort of leaders in the program is currently underway. As these leaders grow in their understanding and commitment, they will serve as inspirations for others across the organization.
Enhancing Workplace Culture Through Allyship
By encouraging leaders to take a formal pledge to uphold and champion inclusivity, this reinforces Perficient’s commitment to fostering an environment where every team member can thrive personally and professionally.
The Executive Ally Program is not a one-time event but a continuous journey toward a more inclusive and supportive workplace. It reflects Perficient’s dedication to creating a culture where everyone can bring their authentic selves to work.
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