Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI)
Lesson 5
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion is a culmination of techniques and best practices that drive organizational results by capitalizing on the unique experience and skillsets of individuals aligned with the organization's mission.
DEI, when done poorly, equates with simple output metrics such as head count or the number of Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) an organization has. DEI, done well, is integral to the top three success metrics for a given organization and actively underlies the obtainment of mission-related and ROI-focused objectives.
We'll start with an overview of the value of DEI, pitfalls to avoid, and how to start thinking about its incorporation into behavioral health through the podcast and Diversity Report Card that follows.
Here at Circle Social, there are a few key elements in the way we incorporate DEI into our organization:
- Utilize DEI strategies to fulfill our mission of connecting patients to quality care
- Recruitment & Hiring
- Always hire the best
- Intentionally recruit those with lived experience that helps us connect with the right potential patients for a provider when appropriate
- When looking at promotions and leadership roles, hire 50% internally and 50% externally
- Actively diversify our hiring pool and recruitment efforts by advertising, looking at, and networking with a wide array of sources
- For an in-depth look, see the related Guide to Inclusive Recruitment
For a larger overview of what DEI looks like specifically for behavioral health, check out our podcast episode by pressing the orange play button.

