Vernā Myers, a pioneering DEI expert and former Netflix VP of Inclusion Strategy, argues – but acknowledges it faces new challenges requiring evolved strategies. Here’s her perspective on corporate inclusion efforts:
Myers emphasizes DEI remains critical for business success, citing data showing diverse companies achieve higher employee satisfaction and 30%+ productivity gains from engaged workforces. She notes 81% of employees still support corporate diversity initiatives, and global competitiveness demands teams reflecting customer demographics. “Diversity is being invited to the party. Inclusion is being asked to dance,” she reiterates.
While political backlash has caused some companies to rebrand DEI efforts, Myers advises leaders to:
– like retention rates and innovation metrics
– to address polarization from election-year tensions
– rather than treating it as separate programs
Myers’ roadmap includes:
1. to assess cultural belonging
2. as Gen Z workers prioritize inclusive workplaces
3. to share best practices
Her work at Netflix – including inclusion frameworks for shows like Bridgerton – demonstrates DEI’s role in creative industries. Now leading The Vernā Myers Company full-time, she’s developing spiritual approaches to bridge societal divides while maintaining corporate accountability.
“DEI isn’t about political correctness – it’s business critical,” Myers asserts. With 63% of workers considering quitting non-inclusive employers, she predicts companies deprioritizing DEI will struggle to attract top talent. Her advice: “Walk the talk by making inclusion everyone’s daily responsibility – not just HR’s.”
