Employee Resource Groups are a core component of our diversity and inclusion program and provide a meaningful support system for our team. As we continue to celebrate Women’s History Month, we’re spotlighting our Women’s Resource Group, an ERG that aspires to give a voice to the unique views and perspectives of women, empower and amplify our company’s community of women, and establish paths to collaborate, innovate, develop talent, and promote an inclusive and connected culture.
We recently caught up with Lynda Sheppard, Global Senior Vice President at DZConneX and a Co-Chair of the Women’s Resource Group, to better understand the contribution of ERGs to a more diverse and inclusive workplace. All employees are welcome and encouraged to join the WRG!
Learn more about Lynda!
What’s your role at Day & Zimmermann?
“I am proud to lead the Total Talent Solutions Division of DZConneX as Global Senior Vice President.”
What’s an average day like at work for you?
“Camera, action, ready! Lots of Zoom calls with clients, team members, business partners, prospects and third-party industry partners.”
What do you like most about your job?
“The people, the variety, the challenge and the fun that comes with those things.”
What makes you proud to work at Day & Zimmermann?
“The people, who in turn enliven our culture and the work we do for our clients.”
What’s a fun fact about you many people don’t know?
“I wrote, starred in and directed a play when I was 11. That’s right – I loved the spotlight and was bossy at an early age!”
Learn more about the Women’s Resource Group!
How did you first get involved in the Women’s Resource Group?
“I was inspired by a co-worker, Erica Kaufman, who was leading the group at the time. I heard her speak on a call and thought, ‘I need to work with her. I need to be a part of what she is involved in.’ She was focused, compassionate and driven, all of which inspired me. On a personal note, as single Mum for nearly 16 years now, leading by example has always been important to me. I want to show my daughter that Mum’s can have – and should expect to have – it all.”
What perspective or viewpoint do you try to bring to the group?
“Creating an inclusive and empathetic environment – one that encourages support, development and self-advocacy – is important to me. As a single Mum with a successful career and 30 years of industry experience, I hope I can help guide and support colleagues.”
What do you hope to get out of your participation in the group?
“Revitalization, enthusiasm and a sense of pride in what we as a group and an organization are able to deliver.”
Why are these kinds of groups and conversations important in the workplace?
“The ERGs create a level playing field for colleagues across the organization, where a minimal hierarchy and a team structure allow ‘unheard’ voices to be heard in a safe and nurturing environment.”
What advice do you have for people looking to understand more about diversity and inclusion in the workplace?
“Read and act. You can be knowledgeable, but it is what you do with that knowledge that really matters. Think about your words, your actions, your environment and what you can do to create a positive outcome for all – personally and professionally.”