Inter-Engineering Event 25 th March 2015 Thomas Anderson Founder, Inclusive | #InclusiveNetworks

Getting started You’ve presented the business case, you have buy in and you’re ready to get started Is there a history of network groups in your organisation? Are networks well represented in your sector? Do the networks successfully represent the diverse range of people working in all areas of the sector/organisations? Yours should!

Authentic visible senior support will be a catalyst for making things happen quicker, encouraging others to get involved and make those coordinating the network feel valued. It sends a clear message to everyone that the network is an integral part of your organisation. It’s essential!

You have a network group Create a team of dedicated and passionate people who will make the network live and breathe. Accommodate their other responsibilities too Now you need to tell people about it First impressions are key. Create a brand (that’s on-brand) to be proud of and others will support, and access. Add the buzz factor! Involve the experts within your organisation and ensure you have their buy in

Engaging with your members (and beyond) Have a plan! Create a detailed roadmap of events and content every year, which you can share with your network sponsors – they probably need lots of notice to put events in their calendar and provide quotes etc. What resources do you have available? Be inclusive and ensure your events and initiatives are accessible to everyone in your organisation. This may take some time – but you have a plan! Pride isn’t everyones cup of tea. Some people prefer a quiet cup of tea!

Inclusive visuals and events will attract a diverse membership

Promoting and celebrating your network New starters – Current employees – Maternity and other leave – Leavers – Clients and beyond Know who your members are What communication methods are used within your organisation? There may be others! What are other networks doing? Talk about a variety of things and the more faces and voices people see and hear the better Work with your marketing team and you never know what opportunities will appear to promote your network

One step at a time “We’ve definitely benefited from looking at what others are doing and taking that idea (and sometimes making it better). Or sometimes thinking, ‘Do you know what, that’s a really good idea but let’s be realistic. Maybe it’s not something for now but perhaps in two or three years.’” Thomas Anderson : Quote from the Stonewall Workplace Equality Index 5 Year Review publication

Posters | Banners | Intranet | Website | Desk drops | Inductions | Staff publications | Network newsletter/magazine | e-updates | Payslips | Events | Social Media

Branded items External promo Magazines – your employees may read these Sponsorship Awards and recognition

Let’s keep connected @thomasinmanc