5 Smart Things to Do in an Era of DEI Backlash

Regardless of where you fall along the ideological spectrum, you may agree that our political environment is fraught. It seems it is easier than ever to say the wrong thing or anger the wrong people. What is more, we are witnessing a period of heightened attacks on efforts that advance or promote equity and inclusion.

If you’re leading in this moment, you may wonder what you should and shouldn’t do. Here are 5 smart things to do to protect yourself, your brand and your work:

Build stronger relationships with your base.

In the same way that you are trying to figure out your next steps, your base is too. Now is a good time to double down on your relationship with your base and ensure consistent dialogue. You can do this by creating avenues for regular communication, being strategic with your email and digital marketing, and checking in with your base about where they are and what they need.

Carefully consider which flames to fan and which to ignore.

Not every fight is for every person. Be strategic about which efforts you entertain and which you ignore. You do not need to lead or participate in every struggle, nor should you engage yourself in matters that do not resonate with your base. We can avoid a lot of heartache by simply walking away from things that do not make a material difference in our lives and work.

Remember that visibility is not always a good thing.

I get it, being platformed via media and podcast interviews feels good. But not every interview is worth your time. Not every interview or appearance will advance your work. The more you say, the greater your digital footprint. It is true that we live in a 24/7 media cycle. But that doesn’t mean you have to be on 24/7. It’s ok to politely decline media interviews or podcasts appearances. Remember that visibility increases scrutiny. If you’re going to be visible, it should be for a specific and strategic purpose.

Accept appearances and interviews that advance your work.

Savvy leaders and celebrities participate in interviews when they have something to promote or sell. They don’t grant interviews just because a person asks. I recommend the same for business and nonprofit leaders. Accept interviews that are aligned with your mission, message and purpose.

Stick to your message. Do not go off script.

Do you know the time when a leader is most likely to make a mistake? It’s when they’ve done their fair share of interviews. It’s when they are relatively comfortable speaking publicly or doing media interviews. They’ve had their share of success and they no longer approach the media – or public appearances – with the seriousness such appearances deserve.

Another time when a leader is likely to make a mistake is when they go off script. While audiences may love getting a raw version of speakers, communicators cringe when leaders get off message. When leaders get so comfortable in the setting that they’re in that they say anything and everything that pops in their minds, they can create unnecessary challenges for themselves.

Bonus: Remember, your digital footprint follows you a long time. Be strategic about what you say and do.

Jennifer R. Farmer, aka The PR Whisperer,^® is the principal of Spotlight PR LLC. Be sure to check out other blogs and subscribe for regular communications updates