Employee-led Networks

Employee-led Networks (ELNs) help employees connect, share ideas and support each other in reaching their potential, as well as support organisations to achieve their objectives.

ELNs can be within a single agency or can bring together those from across the public sector (we call these cross-agency networks).

Networks and their members provide cultural richness, diverse perspectives and valuable subject matter expertise to teams, projects and to the mahi | work of the wider agency.

With a range of objectives, networks help to foster communities and a culture of inclusion, acceptance and mutual respect. ELNs play an important part in bringing New Zealand’s public sector workforce together.

Supporting the development of ELNs is one of the 5 priority areas of the Papa Pounamu Public Service work programme. Public Service chief executives decided to focus on ELNs because having a space and mandate to connect with others with shared lived experiences supports people to bring their whole selves to work. 

You can join the Cross Agency Rainbow Network, Whakamana Ira Tangata, Pou Tangata Moana, Pan-Asian Public Sector Network, Public Service Futures Network and We Enable Us by clicking the Join button on their page.

If the network you’re after doesn’t already exist at your organisation, you can start a new one. You could also check if there is a cross-agency network you could join instead or as well.

The first step is to do some initial research. Find out if there are other people interested in belonging to your network and could help get the network started. If a similar network exists, reach out to them for information and advice.

Your agency People team will be able to help you, or you can contact the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) team at Te Kawa Mataaho Public Service Commission for advice.

Next, identify what your network is trying to achieve and how to reach potential members. Decide how you’ll structure your governance group and establish clear roles and responsibilities. Once you have your communications channels set-up, create a communications plan and build an events calendar.

You’re now ready to launch your ELN.

Find more information on starting an ELN at the link below.

Starting an Employee-led Network

There are 4 key ways people leaders can support networks:

1. Set them up for success – ELNs are most successful when they have visibility and representation at all levels and areas of your agency. Encourage participation and executive sponsorship, allocate resources and include in strategies and plans.
2. Make it accessible – Inclusion is most successful when it’s for everyone. Support members and consider flexible work options to enable participation and agree on reasonable time allocation for ELN mahi within their daily work.
3. Make it safe – ELN members need to feel safe and supported to fully contribute to the mahi of the ELN. Ensure ELNs have safe spaces to meet, keep communication open and seek diverse perspectives and contributions.
4. Be a champion – By championing the work and goals of ELNs, your agency can grow cultural capability and inclusion. Share and celebrate your ELNs’ achievements, provide information about ELNs in induction materials and show visible support by getting involved in activities.

Find more information about being an Executive Sponsor at the link below.

Supporting Employee-led Networks as a leader

Running events, whether they are short lunch time webinars or full multiday conferences, are a great way to bring people together and connect while providing your ELN members with valuable professional development. Use these event resources to guide your thinking around collaborating and planning for your next network event.

Find more information on hosting conferences and events at the links below.

Organising an Employee-led Network conference

Collaborating on Employee-led Network events

Cross-agency networks who are well established and well connected are a good place to go to for information, guidance and support or you can contact the DEI Team at Te Kawa Mataaho Public Service Commission.