How can you help shape IREM’s next steps for DEI?
Did you know IREM is currently running a survey to refine our diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) efforts? Anyone who completes it will be entered into a raffle to win one of 50 Amazon gift cards, for $25 each.
Diversity, equity, and inclusion have always been important to IREM. Our commitment became even clearer in 2021 when an IREM presidential task force created our DEI strategy. Now, we’re asking for your help in determining our priorities, and deciding which products, services, and resources would be most valuable to our members and chapters.
Why a survey?
Having good data on everything we do is more important than ever. “Property and asset managers know how important strong data can be,” says Charles Kellom, Senior Director of DEI at IREM HQ. “We have a general perception of what our members want. This survey will help us know whether our perceptions are accurate, or if there’s anything we’re missing.”
IREM's DEI strategy has 5 elements, each with its own potential actions, benchmarks, and priorities. Charles says the survey will help IREM decide where to start our DEI action plan. “Data can help determine whether you’re having a good year or a great year in other key business areas. We want to utilize data similarly for our DEI efforts.”
Who should take the survey?
Sometimes people think DEI only includes certain groups, but that’s not true. Especially at IREM, when we talk about creating an environment where individuals feel valued, respected, and supported, we truly mean everyone.
That said, we’re hoping all IREM members will participate in the survey. We need to hear everyone’s opinion to know the best way forward.
How will the data be used? Will results be shared?
The data will help determine the specific resources most important to IREM members. For example, the Diversity & Inclusion Succession Initiative (DISI) program is a long-standing tradition at IREM. Would members like to see more programs in that vein, or, more educational resources like the DEI skill badge. “I think we know both those examples are important, but we need a place to start.” Charles says. “Data from the survey will help in making those kinds of decisions.”
Responses will only be seen by IREM HQ staff and kept confidential. While we plan on sharing high-level results from the survey in the spring, for privacy reasons, we won’t be sharing any raw data with chapters or third parties.
How can I participate?
The survey launched Feb. 7th and takes about 10 minutes to complete. You should’ve received a link via SurveyMonkey to the email address associated with myIREM. To update your email address, or to opt-in for future reminders about surveys, click here.
Feel free to contact us at diversity@irem.org with any questions or concerns.