How ERGS Can Transform Your Workplace With Brian Reaves

With special guest, Brian K. Reaves

In this episode of the Allyship in Action podcast, Julie Kratz dives deep into the power of employee resource groups (ERGs) with Brian K. Reaves, the EVP and Chief Belonging, Equity, and Impact Officer of UKG. Julie and Brian discuss how ERGs are not just a “nice to have,” but a “must-have” for any company serious about thriving. Brian’s work at UKG shows us the power of inclusion work and ERGs on business impact.

The true power of employee resource groups (ERGs)

In this episode of the Allyship in Action Podcast, Brian Reaves, EVP and Chief Belonging, Equity and Impact Officer at UKG, discusses his lifelong commitment to creating opportunities for the “have-nots” and fostering inclusion in the workplace. Brian shares his personal journey, from growing up in a socioeconomically deprived area of Los Angeles to becoming a software engineering leader, and how this shaped his passion for diversity, equity, and inclusion.

The conversation highlights the importance of embracing uniqueness, learning from diverse lived experiences, and the power of intergenerational collaboration, exemplified by UKG’s employee resource groups (ERGs). Brian also addresses the changing dynamics of the workforce with the influx of Gen Z and the need for leaders to adapt their styles to effectively engage and empower employees across generations. Julie and Brian discuss how ERGs are not just a “nice to have,” but a “must-have” for any company serious about thriving. Brian’s work at UKG shows us the power of inclusion work and ERGs on business impact.

Key takeaways from this conversation:

The Superpower of Unique Experiences: Brian emphasized that everyone’s unique lived experience is a superpower. ERGs are spaces where these superpowers can be shared, celebrated, and leveraged for innovation and growth. It’s like having a room full of superheroes with different powers, but they all work together to save the day!
Intergenerational Collaboration is Key: The “RISE” ERG at UKG highlights the importance of intergenerational collaboration. It’s about breaking down the silos and creating spaces where different generations can learn from each other. Like Brian said, it’s about being the “cool mom” or “cool dad” by understanding and connecting with the younger generation.
ERGs Drive Business Impact: Brian shared compelling data from Great Place to Work and UKG’s own research that shows ERGs drive higher engagement, retention, and innovation. They’re not just feel-good initiatives; they’re smart business strategies.
Allyship Through Understanding: Brian advocates for joining ERGs that are outside one’s immediate experience to foster understanding and allyship. It’s about stepping outside your comfort zone and learning from others’ perspectives. As he put it, “The power will come when you join the one you have least affinity to.”

Actionable Allyship Takeaway:

If you’re a leader, take the leap and become an executive sponsor for an ERG. And if you’re an employee, consider joining an ERG that stretches you beyond your comfort zone. You’ll be amazed at what you learn and how much you grow.

You can find the UKG ERG Playbook that Brian referenced online here, and you can find Julie Kratz at https://www.nextpivotpoint.com/

Read more about this topic and our interview in Forbes.

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This post was previously published on Next Pivot Point.

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