Inspiration Personified: Tara Butler

Wunderman Thompson are the inspiration experts. Because of this, we know that inspiration doesn’t come from any one place, but rather it should be drawn upon from a diverse and inclusive culture. This allows us to see things differently, reject conventional thinking and push the boundaries of creative bravery. The emergence of hybrid working environments has meant that finding opportunities for meaningful connections and a sense of belonging are more important to protect and nurture than ever before.

In this new environment, it’s imperative for businesses to actively build a diverse, equitable and inclusive workplace where everyone feels welcome, valued and heard. Our Business Employee Resource Groups are just one way we bring people together to provide a positive forum for development, education and idea exchange around a common interest.

We now have 20 of these groups across the Wunderman Thompson network devoted to topics such as AAPI, Sustainability, Marginalised Ethnicities, Disability, Women and more. They’re a key component of what makes Wunderman Thompson inspiration experts, and ensure that their core values are reflected in every aspect of the company.

In 2022 the company added Business to the existing ERG program, which creates more opportunities for the diverse voices of employees to directly impact their work. This is just one way we’re putting inclusive experiences at the heart of our business to help drive growth for our clients, and something we’re passionate about sharing to inspire the wider industry. By incorporating these groups, we take ownership and responsibility for creating culturally competent work that drives conversation that enriches our culture and wider society.

Here are thoughts from members on what inspired their group’s creation, and how they use them to inspire change from their corner of the world.

Name: Tara Butler

Title: Director, product manager

City: Atlanta

Business + Employee Resource Group / Affinity: CAN DO / Disability & Accessibility

Q> Tell us a bit about yourself

Tara> I'm Tara Butler, director of product management at Wunderman Thompson Atlanta. I take great pride in the fact that I started the Business and Employee Resource Group (B+ERG) at Wunderman Thompson North America called CAN DO, which focuses on creating a psychologically safe, accessible, and accepting space for employees to connect, educate each other, and promote themes of accessibility and inclusion.

Q> What made you crave more cultural inspiration at work?

Tara> Having personally navigated the professional landscape with a disability, I've felt the impact first hand. My own journey is what drives me to seek more cultural inspiration at work. It's not just about acknowledging differences, it's about actively creating an environment that celebrates and includes diverse experiences. This personal connection fuels my commitment to the CAN DO B+ERG.

Q> What is the purpose of your group? What is the change you are trying to achieve?

Tara> Our B+ERG serves as a hub, bringing people together to share experiences, offer support, and drive cultural change within our agency. We're on a mission to advocate for accessibility and inclusivity, not just in our workplace but also in the impactful work we deliver for our clients, as well as leading the way for other companies. It's about creating a space for collaboration and making sure our agency reflects the values of true diversity and inclusion.

Q> Why is your group important to the culture of Wunderman Thompson / the wider industry?

Tara> Our B+ERG plays a crucial role in emphasising the importance of accessible and inclusive design, especially in the dynamic realms of marketing and product industries. By championing these principles, we not only enhance our internal culture at Wunderman Thompson but also contribute to setting industry standards that prioritise diversity, accessibility, and inclusivity in every aspect of our work.

Q> What’s been the best part about being involved in your group?

Tara> The best part is fostering a sense of community, especially in our remote work setup. Connecting diverse talents across distances brings fresh perspectives and collaborative energy to create a tangible impact on our culture and industry.

Q> What happens when you get together?

Tara> As we look toward 2024, we're actively shaping the activities and content of our B+ERG. We're in the exciting phase of defining our initiatives and projects, and gathering individuals who are passionate about fostering accessibility and inclusion to join us on the journey of making a meaningful impact.

Q> How has your group inspired change, both within Wunderman Thompson and the wider industry?

Tara> Our objectives drive us to inspire change that extends beyond our immediate sphere. Within Wunderman Thompson North America, our B+ERG serves as a model, showcasing the power of creating a psychologically safe space and advocating for visibility. We aim to inspire not only our colleagues but also other B+ERGs within the company, offering a blueprint for fostering accessibility and inclusivity.

Our impact goes beyond the company walls. By actively participating in industry conversations and events, we aspire to set a standard that inspires change across the wider industry. We believe in a ripple effect – as we reshape our culture, we hope to inspire a movement that transforms workplace cultures across organisations, making diversity, accessibility, and inclusion integral components of our industry's fabric.

Q> Why is community important to you and what makes a good workplace community?

Tara> A thriving workplace culture, in my view, hinges on transparency, authenticity, and a dedication to enabling individuals to show up as their true selves and do their best work. It's about creating an environment where everyone can bring their diverse skills and experiences, contributing to a vibrant community that fosters creativity and collaboration. This philosophy isn't merely a goal, it's the essence of what makes our workplace exciting and conducive to bringing out our true potential.

Q> How do you stay connected to one another?

Tara> In this virtual landscape, staying connected is our lifeline. Regular meetings, forums, and collaborative tools keep us engaged and informed. It's more than just maintaining communication, it's about ensuring that our connections are strong, our voices are heard, and our collective efforts are making a lasting impact.

Q> What is your advice for other agencies who are looking to foster a sense of community among employees, and expand the work they are doing internally to effect change for their clients/the industry?

Tara> For agencies looking to foster a sense of community and diversity, my advice is to actively create psychologically safe spaces for sharing experiences, opinions, and resources. Advocate for the invaluable contribution of diverse cultures and experiences, as they are critical drivers of innovation. Encourage open dialogue, foster an inclusive environment, and implement policies that accommodate diverse needs. By doing so, your agency not only supports its employees but also becomes a catalyst for positive change in the broader industry. Embrace the uniqueness of each individual, and let that diversity be the foundation for a workplace culture that not only adapts to change but actively shapes it.

Q> How can these groups impact the wider industry?

Tara> By serving as a model within Wunderman Thompson North America, inspiring other B+ERGs, and contributing to cultural shifts, we aim to influence the broader professional landscape. Our emphasis on transparency, authenticity, and creating an environment where individuals can bring their true best selves to work isn't just about transforming our agency, it's about reshaping industry norms. As we share our experiences and best practices, we hope to spark a movement that fosters accessibility, inclusivity, and innovation across the entire professional landscape.