Hey Champs 🏆️ 

In a world where resources are tight, it’s easy to feel like ERGs are only valuable if we can prove it. Many execs and resource gatekeepers seem to think the same. So, we’re left with a choice: complain about what we don’t have or make the most of what we do.

Let’s be real—most ERG leaders do a bit of both. We grumble about the lack of resources, and then we tackle what we can with a little bit of resentment because we don’t have all the data, budget, or shiny new tools we think we need. But here’s the thing—building a thriving ERG isn’t about having more resources. It’s about being resourceful with what you’ve got. Maximize what you have, and you’ll unlock more. That’s the recipe.

I feel like it’s been a minute since I’ve written a newsletter article directly to ERG leaders. So, this one’s for you! Let me break it down:

• You don’t need D&I data. Sure, you want it, but you don’t need it. Use the data you already have to tell the story of your community’s engagement. Prove that you can drive change with what you’ve got, and you might just get more access. Remember, the business will only invest more if they see you’re making strategic decisions that move the needle. Show them the proof of concept.

• You don’t need a bigger budget. (not yet anyway) Whether it’s $1,000 or $80,000, you can make it work. The key is to spend it wisely—directly tie your spending to member engagement and the impact you want to see. When you can quantify the results of your budget, you’ll be in a better position to ask for more. So, think twice before blowing it all on a speaker.

• You don’t need new software. I promise, you don’t. The tools you already have—Slack, Teams, Zoom, SharePoint, Confluence, Google Drive, etc—are more powerful than you think. Take the time to learn them, and you’ll be amazed at what you can accomplish. I recently stumbled upon some incredible features in tools I thought I knew inside out. If you’re into visualizing data for free 🙌 , check out Looker Studio or Power BI. Trust me; these tools are game-changers.

We’ll dive deeper into this in our session this upcoming Tuesday, but today, I just want to remind you: make the most of what you have, and that’s how you’ll unlock more.

Feeling like you’re running on empty? Need some tips? Hit me up. I’m more than happy to share ideas, best practices, or just chat. I’ve got a ton of ideas, and I’m always looking for someone to share them with. Here’s my link for a quick 15-minute call if you’re interested.

Keeping it short and sweet today—hope you found this helpful!

Catch you next week.

-The ERG Homegirl ♥

That’s it for this week! 🙌 

Weeks of consistent newsletters: 11 🎊