Why DEI Certification Matters

In today's increasingly diverse and globalized world, it's more important than ever for organizations to have a strong commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). One way to demonstrate this commitment is to invest in certification for your employees.

DEI Certification through the Institute for Diversity Certification (IDC)® is a process that validates an individual's knowledge and skills in DEI. It shows that they have the expertise to help organizations create more inclusive workplaces.

Benefits of Certification

Certification is a valuable tool, providing many benefits for an organization as well as its employees, customers, and partners.

Key benefits of DEI certification:

• Attract and retain top talent. Studies show that employees are more likely to want to work for organizations that are committed to DEI. According to a survey by the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM), 72% of employees said they would be more likely to stay with an organization committed to DEI.
• Improve employee morale and productivity. When employees feel valued and respected, they’re more likely to be engaged in their work. The same SHRM study found that organizations with a strong commitment to DEI have higher employee engagement and 28% lower turnover rates than organizations with a weak commitment.
• Reduce legal liability. There are several laws protecting employees from discrimination, and DEI certification can help demonstrate an organization’s compliance. Employees and customers are also watching. According to Bloomberg Law, nearly 40 lawsuits have been filed since 2020 due to allegedly misleading DEI commitments.
• Improve customer satisfaction. Customers are more likely to do business with organizations they believe are inclusive and diverse. According to a study by McKinsey & Company that found that companies with more diverse management teams are more likely to have higher customer satisfaction.

Protecting DEI Credentials

IDC's credentials are trademarked, which means that they’re protected by law. This ensures that the value of the credentials is not diluted by unauthorized use. Some organizations attempt to employ IDC’s Certified Diversity Professional (CDP)® and Certified Diversity Executive (CDE)® credentials within their programming. Unless they are approved licensees or recertification partners, their programs do not employ the same processes and rigor.

Legal protection also means that IDC Designees are obligated to honor IDC's Trademark Use Guidelines for Designees. These guidelines include how to use the credentials correctly and not misrepresent one’s qualifications. Outlined below are examples of correct usages:

• Certified Diversity Professional (CDP)® or CDP®
• Certified Diversity Executive (CDE)® or CDE®
• Leah Smiley, CDE®
• CDE® Designees

Investing in Certification

Did you know that diversity certification is a fraction of the cost of most certificate programs? These programs are also less rigorous and typically do not require continuing education to ensure you remain abreast of industry best practices and trends, making certification a valuable long-term investment for your team.

Investing in DEI certification is a great way to show your commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. It can help you attract and retain top talent, improve employee morale and productivity, reduce legal liability, and improve customer satisfaction. And it's a fraction of the cost of most certificate programs!

So what are you waiting for? Start building a more diverse and inclusive future for your organization!