Catalyst has more than 20 years of experience working with employee resource groups (ERGs) across a variety of industries and regions. This set of six tools provides human resources (HR) practitioners and ERG leaders with information for getting an ERG up and running, as well as for strategically aligning an existing ERG with the business. It also provides advice on the many considerations necessary for ensuring the long-term success of an ERG. Issues such as the business case, infrastructure, leadership support, and means to track effectiveness are covered. ERG templates—such as a sample questionnaire and sample charter—equip ERG leaders with models they can adapt and customize for their own use.

The first tool in the set defines what an ERG is, describes how it can benefit an organization, its members, and employees, and answers a variety of frequently asked questions.