Employee Resource Networks

Many workplaces have a variety of Employee Resource Networks, often they are a part of their corporate diversity efforts. Networks often go by different names, Affinity Groups, Employee Groups, Diversity Networks, but no matter what the label, the purpose is usually the same: to provide a place for employees with a similar identity to gather together. What the employees do once they have gathered also varies. The WPA believes that Employee Resource Networks assist their employer to address the internal culture and climate and the general workplace environment in regards to their special identities. This can be done in a number of ways, from addressing internal language, training and policies, to issues of customer service, product development and even marketing. Ultimately, an effective Network should have as a part of its mission, assisting the employer to achieve its own mission, business plan and vision.

View a list of Minnesota Employers who offer domestic partner benefits

View a list of local Employee Resource Networks

Research conducted by the Simmons School of Management and Boston College has shown that successful Employee Resource Networks go beyond these internal issues. Networks who have members involved in the broader community, from serving as mentors to youth, to volunteering time on Boards, to representing their employer at community festivals and fundraisers are the Networks that have the highest employee participation, increased survival rates and accomplish the most effective and lasting internal change.

Before accepting a job many potential employees may contact the Employee Resource Network(s) to which they have an affiliation. It is not unusual for someone to contact multiple Networks to find out about an organization. For instance, a person my feel equally aligned to the Women’s Network, the Hispanic Network and the GLBT and Friends Network; so they may choose to contact all of them about different concerns before joining a company.

The WPA has published this listing to help employees connect with their Networks. We invite you to add your Network to this list, but please remember that adding your contact information to this list will make the information available to anyone around the world. If you are trying to start a Network, or do not have a separate email account for your Network, you may wish to maintain your privacy by creating an email address at one of the free services that are available (such as Yahoo).