Diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs are making workplaces more inclusive, but leadership’s commitment to these efforts is wavering, according to a new survey of U.S. employees.
A report from MyPerfectResume, based on a February 2025 survey of more than 1,000 employees, found that DEI initiatives have led to measurable improvements in company culture, leadership diversity, and employee experiences. However, some organizations are scaling back these programs despite their positive impact.
Employees report tangible benefits
The survey highlights the broad impact of DEI initiatives:
- 88% of employees said overall company diversity has improved.
- 87% reported increased diversity in leadership positions.
- 95% said DEI programs have positively affected their personal work experience.
- 79% observed positive changes in company culture.
- 74% felt DEI initiatives effectively addressed challenges for underrepresented employees.
“These findings reinforce that DEI programs are not just symbolic gestures—they are actively shaping workplace environments for the better,” said Dr. Jasmine Escalera, a career expert with over 15 years of experience in fostering inclusive workplaces.
Transparency and accountability key to success
Many organizations are tracking and communicating their DEI progress:
- 89% conduct internal DEI surveys or assessments.
- 76% have leadership teams that provide updates on DEI efforts.
- 77% share progress reports with employees.
Transparency and consistent communication help build trust and reinforce leadership’s commitment to long-term inclusion, Escalera noted.
Leadership commitment under scrutiny
Despite the reported benefits, some companies are rolling back DEI efforts, raising concerns about leadership’s long-term dedication to workplace inclusivity.
“The issue isn’t that DEI programs are failing,” said Escalera. “It’s that leadership in some organizations lacks the conviction to stand by these initiatives.”
The survey also identified specific DEI strategies that employees find effective, including:
- Employee support groups based on shared identities (47%)
- Training for managers on fostering inclusive teams (47%)
- Mentorship and career guidance programs (45%)
- Focused diverse hiring efforts (45%)
- Bias reduction training (39%)
- Pay equity reviews to ensure fair compensation (37%)
“DEI programs succeed when they are backed by real action,” Escalera said. “The data shows that these initiatives are making workplaces more equitable and diverse. Scaling them back now would be a step in the wrong direction.”
The survey, conducted on February 3, 2025, polled 1,096 U.S. employees through Pollfish, using multiple-choice, scale-based, and open-ended questions to assess the perceived impact of DEI initiatives.
