ERG Toolkit1 (1) - Flipbook - Page 20
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STEP 8: CREATE AN INNOVATIVE BUSINESS SOLUTION
Identifying a special feature for the program is critical to generating interest,
fostering participation, and enhancing attendance. Defining this special feature in
the context of a business solution creates added value and increases support
and recognition for the group. For example, setting a goal to establish a cadre of
mentors to guide newly hired people with disabilities or for employees or
caregivers who manage newly diagnosed impairments may significantly
improve productivity and job retention. Community involvement is another goal
with high visibility that may enhance the company’s external image with diverse
groups and organizations. Serving on boards or participating in special events
promotes overall brand recognition while establishing the company as an
employer of choice, with the former contributing to increased market share and
the latter to talent acquisition. Brainstorming with group members will help
generate ideas that will give a unique focus and purpose for all to work towards.
The following are a few steps for consideration in meeting this goal:
1. Send Out Meeting Invite
Prepare an email invitation to join the brainstorming session (see Email
Template here).
State the objective of the meeting: to develop an innovative business solution.
Specify the session's date, time, and location (or virtual link).
Encourage members who cannot attend to submit ideas in advance using
the form (see Form Template here).
Attach the meeting agenda (see Agenda Template here).
2. Meet and Review Ideas
Gather Ideas: Host the session in person or virtually to review and discuss
ideas from attending members, along with any pre-submitted ideas.
Foster Collaboration: Create an open, respectful space for members to share
thoughts and build upon each other’s suggestions.
Organize and Narrow Down: Record all concepts, group similar ideas, and
through consensus, eliminate those that do not align with project goals.
Evaluate and Vote: Conduct a vote to identify the best options. Use a checklist
or rubric (see Checklist Template) to evaluate each idea.
Adopt the Final Idea: Select the consensus idea and prepare to share it
company-wide.
3. Implement
Post-Meeting Follow-Up: Send an email with meeting minutes and the
agreed-upon implementation plan, led by [designated leader] (see Email
Template 2).
Monitor and Adjust: Track progress, encourage ongoing feedback, and make
adjustments as needed to ensure success.
R
EG
employee resource group
