What do you get when a group of like-minded people join together in the workplace to spearhead productive initiatives? They’re officially called Employee Resource Groups (ERGs), Affinity groups, or committees, and they’re helping to redefine workplace wellness. According to Catalyst, ERGs are “voluntary, employee-led groups that foster a diverse, inclusive workplace aligned with the organizational mission, values, goals, business practices, and objectives.” These committees have been known to help develop future leadership roles, increase employee engagement, and expand marketplace reach. Intrigued? We’ve answered some common questions about ERGs below!
What types of ERGs are out there?
ERGs can be centered around pretty much anything, from art to cooking to diversity and inclusion. But at Givhero, we’re especially big fans of the ones that help create positive change in the health, wellness, and community service space. Interested in nutrition? Start an ERG that focuses on bringing healthy food options into the workplace. Passionate about exercise? Gather colleagues once a month for a spin class. Do volunteer work on your own? Start a community service meet-up. Check out Givhero for some initiative inspo!
Which companies have ERGs?
While companies of all sizes are buying into the ERG game, some recognizable names are Ernst & Young, AT&T, Bank of America, and Microsoft. At EY, there are a wide array of ERGs available such as working mothers, cancer survivors, and native speakers of French! Microsoft, on the other hand, has spent much of its ERG efforts on their “Women at Microsoft (W&M)” initiative which is known as one of the most successful ERGs around.
How do I start an ERG?
We get it. The last thing you want to at work is more work! But once you’re able to define a core value that you want to build upon, ERGs are fairly simple to set up. This article from The Muse outlines everything you need to keep in mind when kicking off your own ERG, from making the case for your idea to working with the resources that are available to you.
How can Givhero help?
If you’re excited about the prospect of starting ERGs at your company, Givhero can absolutely help. Through our automated platform and app, we create motivating challenges, connect employees, integrate with fitness trackers, and provide custom reports! We focus on the legwork involved in maintaining an ERG so you can focus on thriving.
Interested in partnering with Givhero to launch your own ERG? Contact us here!
Written By
Hanna Berman is a Mental Health & Wellness Contributor for Givhero. As a Mental Health & Organizational Consultant, her career is dedicated to exploring behavior change on both an individual and collective level. She holds a Masters from King’s College London in Global Ethics & Human Values and is a part-time Reiki practitioner with City Acupuncture Clinic in Washington DC.
