The power of storytelling in DEI initiatives

Data and statistics form the foundation of an effective DEI strategy. Collecting and analysing data informs decision making and enables us to track progress. 

When trying to engage the wider organisation, statistics can feel distant. People tend to become numb to data, so often miss out on truly understanding the reality of the situation.

At the heart of our approach to challenging bias and driving inclusion, is storytelling. Stories breathe life into data and make it relatable and impactful.

Here's how storytelling can help amplify your DEI initiatives:

Stories Break Down Barriers. Stories allow us to step into someone else’s shoes. By sharing the lesser-known experiences, we can challenge stereotypes and foster more understanding. When allies hear the reality of the struggles colleagues face on a day-to-day basis, they're more likely to become engaged advocates.

Stories Inspire. Stories showcase what’s possible. We can use them to highlight achievements to inspire others. You can’t be what you can’t see. Stories spotlight what can be achieved by knocking down barriers, to help ignite ambition in others.

Stories Build Community. Sharing stories cultivates a sense of belonging and helps people to feel less alone. In sharing stories, you’re creating a space for support and understanding - which is so needed when overcoming barriers of the corporate world.

So what can you do to harness the power of stories?

Normalise sharing stories: people are often not used to reflecting on their own experiences so give them an opportunity to learn from their own narrative. Create the space to share stories and see the positive impact it has on team relationships, empathy and awareness.

Amplify others voices: seek out and champion the stories of others. Highlight role-models and those who have broken down barriers. You could create a series of these success stories and think about the different formats of how people like to digest stories (written, visual, podcasts, animated) - see this as a way to get creative!

Share your own: don’t underestimate the importance of your own experience and what others can learn from it. Seek out opportunities to share your narrative to inspire others - this could be in a ERG meeting, a Linkedin post, at a panel event.

Use stories to amplify the data: The data is an invaluable tool to emphasise the experiences we’re hearing about through storytelling, how can you use data and storytelling in-sync to maximise the impact of your message?

We’d love to hear your experiences of using stories to amplify DEI, let us know what’s worked within your organisation.

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Squash use drama to spotlight the reality of bias in the workplace. We use scenarios based on lived experiences to start a dialogue on how to respond and rethink. Find out more here.