Ericsson’s Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) are employee-led, voluntary groups that work to support and grow an inclusive work environment within the organization. The goal of an ERG is to help cultivate a sense of belonging in the workplace for all colleagues, and to contribute toward Ericsson’s mission and D&I strategy.
In Ericsson Athlone, we are proud of the six ERGs we have in the office, and the work they do throughout the year: Cultural Diversity, Generational Diversity, ePride, Neurodiversity, Mental Health Awareness, and Tech Connect (Women in Tech).
We sat down with some of the leaders from the groups to learn more about their ERG experience:
Participation in these groups is 100% voluntary. Why did you decide get involved?
These groups are self-organized and self-directed. What’s the biggest learning you have had so far?
From Charlotte Meme Kefeletswe, co-chair of the Mental Health Awareness ERG:
The ERG has taught me that when people come together with a shared vision for the greater good, incredible things can happen. With teamwork, dedication, and passion, we’ve successfully brought event after event to life, all because we believe in fostering a healthy work environment that prioritizes mental well-being.
From Alicia Smith, co-chair of the Tech Connect ERG:
The two most important things I’ve learned so far are: 1. The importance of diverse perspectives - not only when we talk about DE&I, but in our normal every day too, and 2. Good things really do take time - it’s easy to want to rush into things and get as much done as possible, but real value comes from a solid foundation and strategy, things that can’t be rushed.
From John O'Brien, committee member of the Generational Diversity ERG:
The importance of celebrating our different cultures; it’s a great way to connect and learn more about your colleagues.
From Sinead O'Reilly, co-chair of the Neurodiversity ERG:
Honestly, it’s how much of a difference open conversations can make. Just hearing people share their stories whether they’re neurodivergent themselves or supporting someone who is, has been eye-opening. I’ve learned that even small changes in how we work or communicate can have a huge impact on someone’s experience at work.
What has been the most unexpected part of your experience?
From Bethany Hanrahan, co-chair of the Tech Connect committee:
The most unexpected part of my experience working with Tech Connect has been the amount of people I have gotten to connect with both in Ireland and across Ericsson globally.
From Somesh Kumar, co-chair of the Cultural Diversity ERG:
Unexpected part of the experience is when we see a lot of enthusiasm for participation. For e.g. when we did the MasterChef during the pandemic times, it was great to see that we could still do so much despite everyone working from home due to the pandemic circumstances.
From Charlotte Meme Kefeletswe, co-chair of the Mental Health Awareness ERG:
So far, nothing has been unexpected, everything has aligned with what I had hoped for. I found a community that collaborates to achieve our goals, and the support I received in every role I took on within the ERG has been incredible.
What would you say to someone who has an idea or would like to get involved?