We recognized a need to create greater awareness around unconscious bias and other D&I issues through training. It was also critical for us to address the challenges different associate groups face with completing training and ensure the information is shared with new associates.

We launched our company-wide Unconscious Bias Training in August 2020 to educate, raise awareness and recognize that we all have biases. We must actively take steps to control and minimize bias in our decision-making as well as how it shows up in the workplace. With our customer-facing associates in mind, those with tight schedules and associates who typically do not work on computers daily, we created short segments of training to aid in retention and avoidance of information overload. This company-wide mandatory training is now part of our new hire onboarding process, ensuring the information is shared consistently at all levels from the start.

In addition to the Unconscious Bias training, we also provide D&I relevant articles and videos through our learning management system allowing associates the opportunity to dig deeper into topics of particular interest. The content ranges from strictly factual videos and articles to resources that evoke emotion and naturally encourage conversation.

We are early in the training process but have successfully provided essential information to our associates. We will continue to develop training material and provide opportunities for open dialogue. With continued focus, our associates will have the understanding and confidence necessary to help mitigate biases and assist us on our diversity and inclusion journey.

Tracy Piper