Abstract
Diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) specialists are emerging roles in organizations in Poland responding to increasing workforce diversity. This study explores the experiences of DEI practitioners in Poland, focusing on their challenges and organizational dynamics. The objective is to identify key barriers they face and their strategies for professional identity development. This research is relevant for organizations considering DEI roles and individuals entering the field. Positioned within human resource management and diversity studies, the study employs a qualitative methodology, using semi-structured in-depth interviews with six women DEI practitioners. The research activities included interviewing, transcribing, and coding data using an inductive approach in NVivo. Findings reveal significant organizational barriers, including a lack of resources, formalized structures, and senior management support. Participants, often the first in their role, navigated professional identity formation within their organizations. These results align with Bourdieu’s concept of symbolic power in DEI contexts. The study concludes that strengthening institutional support and formalizing DEI structures can enhance the effectiveness of DEI practitioners, offering valuable insights for companies and professionals in the field.
Presenters
Alicja DudekResearch and Teaching Assistant, Department of Human Capital Management, Krakow University of Economics, Poland
Details
Presentation Type
Paper Presentation in a Themed Session
Theme
KEYWORDS
Diversity Management, DEI, Inclusion, Inclusive Organization
