WASHINGTON—Employee resource groups (also known as ERGs, affinity groups, or business network groups) are groups of employees who join together in their workplace based on shared characteristics or life experiences.

ERG’s are generally based on providing support, enhancing career development, and contributing to personal development in the work environment. In the past, ERGs have traditionally been focused on personality traits or characteristics, for example women, religious affiliations, sexual orientation, gender, etc.

— Photo courtesy: Rick Leggett, BDPA Triangle Chapter

With the resurgence of ERGs in the workplace, ERGs are expanding to “interest-based” groups, such as local BDPA Chapters, to gather around particular community activities. Some of these include job responsibility, environmental advocacy, community service and volunteerism, and workplace wellness. Further, as an emerging facet of talent acquisitions, human resources, and employee engagement in the business world, the existence of ERGs remain extremely important for reference and understanding in the world of business. Exploring the topic of employee resource groups can provide insightful information for business employees and young professionals seeking to understand new business models in technology, cyber, and STEM.

AT&T and MetLife employee resource groups participate in recent BDPA Regional Technology and Innovation summits. See cover story in July 2016 edition of bdpatoday.

— Sources: Wikipedia and BDPA