10 questions to ask yourself before taking on extra DEI work for your organisation

*POV: You have just been asked, or maybe you have even volunteered yourself, to start doing extra work which involves DEI within your organization.*
Me and my friend Ash Ahmad regularly find ourselves supporting folks in this position. So last week when we met up, we found ourselves discussing the advice we share... and this post was born! 

There is often a disconnect between your own motivations or expectations, with the reality of doing this work - especially if your organization is just getting started! 

So here are our 10 questions to ask yourself before taking on extra DEI work for your organisation - whether this is paid, 'voluntary', as an ERG lead or otherwise...

1. What are my motivations for doing this work?  
2. How will I be compensated and given recognition for doing this work?  
3. How will I identify gaps in my knowledge of DEI and develop myself as I take on this work? 
4. Which privileges and biases do I have, and what can I do to ensure I advocate for all marginalised people in the organisation?  
5. Who cares more about DEI, me or the people paid to be accountable for progress? 
6. How is my current mental health state? 
7. What will support look like from those in power?
8. Do I currently have the capacity mentally, in my role and in my personal life to take on the work?
9. What will I say ‘no’ to that crosses my boundaries?
10. Who is my support and accountability network?

If you have been in this position, what other questions did you ask yourself... or wish you asked yourself?

Co-created with Ash Ahmad!