Let Us Become Better Humans, Together

A Value-Based Approach for Medium-Sized Businesses

Informed by cultural anthropology, sociolinguistics, and marketing, Rico Paul Vallejos helps small and medium-sized businesses achieve inclusion goals through a comprehensive personal and professional development initiative while avoiding the pitfalls of traditional DEI and Diversity training programs.

Acknowledging that "diversity" and "DEI" have become controversial, he recommends avoiding this and other divisive language when promoting Inclusion.

While some public corporations have doubled down on DEI (Microsoft, Salesforce, Costco) and others have either ditched or scaled back DEI programs (McDonald's, Walmart, Boeing, Caterpillar, John Deere, Polaris, Harley-Davidson, Tractor Supply), CEOs of privately-held medium-sized companies can face a more formidable challenge: Finding a balance between pleasing (or appeasing) employees and consumers at both extremes of our polarized society, without the resources of large public corporations.

Costco's response to anti-DEI activists can serve as a model to follow, presenting a solid business case for inclusion. Time will tell if their choice of keeping the "DEI" label was right, but their emphasis on values (such as respect and inclusion) is right on the money.

A false dichotomy
DEI vs. MEI? (Diversity-Equity-Inclusion vs. Merit-Excellence-Intelligence)

Understanding that DEI and MEI are not mutually exclusive, Rico helps organizations use both models in a holistic strategy to create and sustain a culture that values the excellence of individual merit and the creativity and innovation of diverse perspectives within an inclusive workplace.

Company-Market Value Alignment

Rico's Company-Market Value Alignment model offers a unique 360-degree approach to business. Think Organizational Development meets Marketing: Starting with your Mission-Vision-Values (which we can develop or update together), we do a market scan using qualitative research methodologies beyond regular market research. We then do the value alignment work, creating a relevant initiative customized to your organization, considering your team's skillset and your market's needs and wants vis-à-vis your brand.

Your company runs on talent

A Company-Market Value Alignment's inside/outside focus fosters an organizational culture aligned with market needs while empowering team members in their personal and professional growth.

Rico will work with you and your team to develop metrics to track the benefits of a Company-Market Value Alignment initiative:
• Higher productivity and profitability
• Lower turnover and reduced absenteeism
• Improved teamwork, communication, and collaboration
• Increased innovation and creativity
• Lower worker’s compensation costs
• Enhanced customer satisfaction
• True corporate culture authenticity
• More engaged employees and a stronger employer brand

Schedule a free consultation today.