Link Sharing: Do Changes to DEI Policies Affect Corporate Reputation in the US?

​Shared by Shahar Silbershatz

The recent report by Group Caliber, titled "Do Changes to DEI Policies Affect Corporate Reputation in the US?" (April 7, 2025), examines how corporate decisions to modify Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives influence public perception and trust. 

Key Findings:

1. Public Opinion on DEI Adjustments: In the United States, 36% of respondents indicated increased trust in companies that have reduced their DEI commitments, while 24% expressed decreased trust. This polarization underscores the complex landscape companies navigate regarding DEI policies.
   
2. Impact on Consumer Behavior: The study found that 35% of American consumers are more likely to purchase from companies that scale back DEI initiatives, whereas 24% are less likely to do so. This suggests that DEI positions can directly affect consumer choices.
   
3. Reputational Metrics Remain Stable: Despite varied opinions, companies that altered their DEI strategies did not experience significant changes in their Trust & Like Scores over a quarterly timeframe, indicating that immediate reputational impacts may be minimal. ​
   

Conclusions:

• Corporate decisions on DEI policies elicit diverse reactions from the public, reflecting broader societal debates.
  
• While individual opinions on DEI are polarized, these sentiments have not translated into substantial reputational shifts for companies in the short term.
  
• Organizations should carefully consider their DEI strategies, balancing internal values with external perceptions and potential consumer responses.
  

Go Deeper:

For further insights into managing corporate reputation amid evolving societal expectations, explore the following resources from our thought leadership:

• The Business Case on Climate and DEI: How Comms Matters for Each
• Perspectives on Communications and DE&I in a New Political Era