The Ultimate Guide to Employee Resource Groups (ERGs)

Employee resource groups (ERGs) are making workplaces more inclusive, connected, and empowering for everyone. This guide will help you understand what ERGs are, how to start one, and ways to keep them strong and growing. ERGs give employees a voice, a sense of belonging, and a chance to make meaningful changes at work. By providing spaces for connection, support, and advocacy, ERGs help build a workplace where everyone feels valued.

ERGs also provide opportunities for employees to develop leadership skills, contribute to the company's success, and create lasting connections. By forming these groups, employees can work together to address shared challenges, celebrate their cultures, and drive positive change in the workplace.

Table of contents

1. What is an employee resource group (ERG)?
2. Why are ERGs important?
3. Different types of ERGs
4. Creative names for ERGs
5. How to start an ERG
6. Sustaining and growing ERGs
7. Supporting ERGs with ERG software, tools, and resources
8. Next steps: get involved

What is an employee resource group (ERG)?

Employee resource groups (ERGs) are groups led by employees that bring people together based on shared backgrounds, interests, or experiences. These groups are all about creating connections, offering support, and helping each other grow at work. ERGs play a key role in making sure everyone feels included and supported.

Key features of employee resource groups (ERGs)

• Employee-led and voluntary: ERGs are started and run by employees who are passionate about making a difference. This gives members a sense of ownership and encourages authentic engagement.
• Diversity-focused: ERGs help underrepresented groups feel heard and valued. They also educate others about different cultures and experiences, fostering empathy and understanding across the company.
• Aligned with company goals: ERGs often support the company’s goals, like diversity and inclusion, social responsibility, and community involvement. They create a positive impact on both the company and its employees.

ERGs not only help their members but also make the company stronger by encouraging new ideas, improving employee happiness, and helping to keep talent. They provide a platform for employees to express their concerns, share their achievements, and collaborate on initiatives that matter to them. ERGs also give employees the opportunity to take on leadership roles and influence company policies, leading to a more engaged and motivated workforce.

*note, employee resource groups (ERGs), business resource groups (BRGs), and affinity groups are terms often used interchangeably, but they each serve unique purposes.

Why are employee resource groups important?

ERGs are more than just groups—they help make the workplace better for everyone. The purpose of employee resource groups is to create a space where people feel valued, supported, and able to share their experiences. ERGs give employees a chance to connect, learn, and make their workplace more welcoming.

Benefits of employee resource groups for companies and employees

• Boost belonging: ERGs help employees feel like they belong, which makes them happier and more motivated at work. Feeling connected to a community boosts morale and helps employees feel like they are part of something bigger. For example, LGBTQ+ ERGs can create safe spaces for employees to share their stories and feel supported by their peers.
• Strengthen culture: ERGs promote diversity and inclusion, which helps make the company culture stronger and more innovative. By creating spaces where different perspectives are valued, ERGs encourage creativity and problem-solving. ERGs can also organize cultural celebrations, such as Black History Month events or International Women's Day, which help educate the entire workforce and foster appreciation for diversity.
• Support company goals: ERGs help with company-wide goals, like community involvement and social responsibility, by organizing events and activities that make a difference. They help bridge the gap between corporate values and day-to-day employee experiences, ensuring that everyone feels connected to the company's mission. For instance, ERGs focused on sustainability can lead company-wide initiatives to reduce waste or promote environmental awareness.

Companies with active ERGs see better employee engagement, retention rates, employee morale, professional development, and reputation. ERGs also help employee recruitment, especially people who care about diversity and inclusion. When employees see that a company supports ERGs, they are more likely to feel that the company values their well-being and growth. Additionally, ERGs provide a sense of community that can be especially important for new hires, helping them acclimate more quickly and feel at home within the organization.

Different types of employee resource groups (ERGs)

ERGs come in many different forms, depending on what employees are interested in or need. They can be based on culture, interests, or career development, giving people a place to connect with others who share similar backgrounds or goals.

What are some types of employee resource groups?

• Cultural and identity-based groups: LGBTQ+, Black Employee Networks, Women in Leadership. These groups provide support for underrepresented communities and help others learn and become allies. They also create opportunities for celebrating cultural events and raising awareness about different communities within the company. For example, a Women's Leadership ERG might host speaker series with female executives or provide mentorship programs for young women in the company.
• Interest-focused groups: Sustainability, Parenting, Veterans, Mental Health. These groups bring together employees with common interests, encouraging them to make a positive impact. Interest-based ERGs can help employees find like-minded people, share resources, and even work on projects that benefit the community. A Sustainability ERG, for instance, could lead initiatives like a company-wide recycling drive or organize volunteer events for local environmental causes.
• Career development groups: Professional Networking, Skill-Building. These groups help members grow their skills and advance their careers through training, workshops, and networking. Career development ERGs also provide mentoring opportunities and help members build the confidence they need to pursue leadership roles. For example, a Professional Networking ERG might host monthly networking luncheons or workshops on resume building and interview skills.

ERGs can be customized to meet the needs of your company, helping to create a culture of belonging for everyone. By supporting a wide variety of ERGs, companies can ensure that there is something for everyone, making the workplace more inclusive. Encouraging employees to take part in multiple ERGs can also help foster cross-cultural understanding and build stronger relationships across different teams. 

Employee resource group name ideas and logos

Choosing a name and logo for your ERG can be fun and help make your group stand out. A good name and logo can help people understand what your group is about and make them excited to join.

Tips for naming your ERG

• Make it clear and welcoming (e.g., “Women’s Leadership Network”) so people know what your group is about and feel comfortable joining. A straightforward name helps people quickly understand your group's focus.
• Use acronyms or playful language that makes it memorable and fun (e.g., “PRIDE at Work” or “VETS for Success”). A creative name can make your group stand out and create a sense of identity and pride among members.
• Highlight your mission or values (e.g., “Empower: Women’s Network”) to inspire others. Including a strong value in your name helps communicate what your ERG is about and encourages others to participate.

A creative logo can also bring your ERG to life and represent your group’s mission and values visually. Logos can include symbols that represent the group's focus, making it more recognizable and relatable to others. For example, a Veterans ERG might use an image of an eagle or a flag to represent their mission. A well-designed logo helps build group identity and makes promotional materials more engaging.

How to start an ERG in 7 Steps

Starting an ERG takes planning and support. Here’s how you can do it:

How to set up an employee resource group?

1. Identify the purpose and audience: Decide why you need the ERG and who it’s for. A clear purpose helps attract members and support from leadership. For example, if your goal is to support parents at work, make sure your mission speaks directly to their needs.
2. Gain executive sponsorship: Get support from company leaders who can provide resources and visibility for your group. Having an executive sponsor helps ensure your ERG is taken seriously and has the backing it needs to succeed.
3. Develop a mission statement and goals: Write down what your group wants to achieve. This will guide your activities and keep your group focused. Your mission should be inspiring but also clear enough to guide your actions.
4. Recruit members and leaders: Encourage passionate employees to join and lead the group. Diverse leadership makes the group more inclusive and ensures different perspectives are represented. Leaders play a key role in maintaining momentum and driving the group forward.
5. Create an action plan and budget: Plan activities and figure out what resources you need. A solid plan will help keep your group on track. Think about what events you want to hold, what materials you need, and how you can fund them.
6. Promote your ERG: Spread the word to get more members. Use emails, posters, and word-of-mouth to build excitement. You can also ask current members to share their experiences and encourage others to join. Social media can also be a great way to showcase your ERG’s activities and attract new members.
7. Launch and grow: Start small, get feedback, and make improvements. Continuous growth will keep your ERG relevant and effective. Be open to suggestions from members and use their feedback to shape future activities. Hosting an engaging launch event, such as a social mixer or an introductory meeting, can help generate interest and excitement.

Starting an ERG is a great way to build community, support inclusion, and make positive changes at work. By following these steps, you can create an ERG that makes a real difference for its members and the entire company. The key is to start with a strong foundation and remain flexible, allowing your group to evolve based on the needs and interests of its members.

Strategies for sustaining and growing ERGs

Once your ERG is up and running, the key is to support by keeping members engaged and maximizing the group's impact. ERGs that stay active and aligned with company goals can make a big difference.

How to ensure success for employee resource group?

• Align with company goals: Make sure your ERG’s mission supports the company’s goals, like diversity and community involvement. This will help secure resources and show the group’s value. When ERGs align with company goals, they gain credibility and can make a larger impact. For example, an ERG focused on community service could collaborate with the company’s CSR team to host charity events.
• Measure and report impact: Track your progress on goals like volunteer hours and partnerships. Sharing your success keeps members motivated and shows the impact of your ERG. Regular updates also help maintain leadership support by demonstrating the group’s value. Consider creating a quarterly newsletter to highlight your ERG’s accomplishments and upcoming activities.
• Engage all employees: Host events like volunteer days, awareness campaigns, and social activities. Offering different types of events will attract more members and keep them involved. Make sure to plan activities that are inclusive and appealing to a wide range of employees. For example, you could host a virtual book club, a panel discussion, or a family-friendly event to ensure there’s something for everyone.

What are employee resource event ideas?

• Workshops and webinars: Host educational sessions on topics relevant to your ERG’s mission, such as career development, cultural awareness, or mental health.
• Social events: Plan activities like happy hours, game nights, or themed lunches to help members connect in a relaxed setting.
• Volunteer projects: Organize community service events that align with your ERG’s mission. For example, a Veterans ERG might partner with local organizations to support veterans in need.
• Awareness campaigns: Use special months or days (e.g., Pride Month, Black History Month) to educate employees and celebrate diversity.

More employee resource group activities. 

Consider partnering with other ERGs or outside organizations to expand your reach and provide new opportunities for members. Collaborating with other groups can help you learn best practices, combine resources, and increase the visibility of your ERG. For example, a Women in Leadership ERG could collaborate with a Professional Networking ERG to host a career advancement workshop. 

Supporting ERGs with ERG software, tools, and resources

Having the right tools can make ERGs even more successful. Percent Pledge offers resources to help ERGs thrive, including event planning and impact tracking.

How Percent Pledge supports ERGs

• Passion Assessments: Learn what matters most to employees so your ERG can plan activities that fit their interests. Knowing what employees care about helps you create more meaningful events and activities.
• Volunteer Event Planning: Plan impactful events that bring members together and make a positive difference in the community. Well-planned events help build bonds between members and strengthen the ERG.
• Impact Dashboards: Track and report your ERG’s progress to show achievements and keep members excited. Keeping track of your accomplishments helps you see what’s working and where you can improve.

Providing ERGs with the right support ensures they have the tools they need to stay organized, effective, and focused on their mission. By making use of these resources, ERGs can focus more on making a positive impact and less on administrative tasks.

How to get involved with ERGs

Your journey with ERGs doesn’t have to stop here. Whether you want to join an ERG, start a new one, or grow an existing group, there are resources to help you. Getting involved in ERGs helps you build connections, learn new skills, and make your workplace more inclusive.

Improve your ERGs today

Schedule a demo to see how Percent Pledge can help your ERG succeed. Having the right tools can make a big difference in the success of your ERG.

Together, we can create a workplace where everyone feels valued and empowered. ERGs are a great way to make your company stronger and more inclusive for all employees. They help build a community where everyone feels they belong, and where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. By taking the next steps, you can be a part of this positive change and help create an environment that celebrates diversity, encourages growth, and supports all employees.