When we think about the most powerful ways to create meaningful, inclusive, and engaging workplaces, staff networks often fly under the radar. Yet, these groups – whether they’re formal employee resource groups (ERGs), informal interest-based communities, or purpose-driven collectives like wellbeing champions and change ambassadors – have a unique ability to spark positive, people-led change.
As we mark National Staff Networks Day, it’s a timely reminder of the impact these groups can have – not just for the individuals involved, but for the wider organisation.
What Are Staff Networks, Really?
Staff networks go beyond being support groups or social clubs. Done well, they play an essential role in:
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Building belonging and inclusion
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Amplifying underrepresented voices
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Driving grassroots innovation
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Acting as trusted feedback loops
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Supporting change from within
They come in many forms – employee-led groups focused on shared identity or experience (e.g. LGBTQ+ networks, carers networks), but also cross-cutting groups like employee champions, wellbeing advocates, and change agents. Whatever the shape, their power lies in being a bridge between employees and the organisation – a channel through which culture can evolve from the inside out.
The Benefits: Why They Matter
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Insight from the front line: Staff networks are closer to day-to-day realities than senior leadership often is. They surface the real stories behind the data – helping to identify blind spots, barriers, or opportunities that might otherwise be missed.
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Cultural intelligence: These groups often hold a mirror up to the organisation, showing how culture is really experienced. They can shape more inclusive policies, influence language, and challenge assumptions – often in ways that feel more authentic and human than top-down comms ever could.
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Driving engagement and advocacy: When people feel empowered to lead change – especially on issues that matter personally – they’re more likely to feel connected to the organisation’s purpose. This sense of ownership can dramatically boost engagement.
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Support through change: Champions and ambassadors can be a game-changer during periods of transformation. Whether it’s embedding new ways of working, rolling out a wellbeing strategy, or supporting diversity initiatives, having trusted peers guiding others through change is invaluable.
From theory to practice: Starbucks UK
One great example of staff networks in action comes from our work with Starbucks UK. Their employee experience strategy centred around listening – not just through surveys or pulse checks, but by creating a network of employee experience advocates embedded across the business.
These advocates became the voice of their stores and teams. They helped surface ideas, challenges, and opportunities; co-created improvements; and brought the wider EX strategy to life in ways that felt authentic and energising. The result? Better engagement, stronger alignment, and an employee experience owned by the people living it every day.
You can read the full case study here.
Making It Work: What to Think About
If you’re looking to create or strengthen staff networks, consider the following:
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Start with purpose. Why does this group exist? What change do they want to drive?
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Give support, not control. Staff networks thrive when they have the autonomy to act – with access to resources and senior sponsorship where needed.
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Create connections. Don’t let groups operate in silos – connect them to each other, and to leadership, to share insights and learning.
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Recognise their contribution. Too often, this work happens “off the side of the desk.” Celebrate it, fund it, and make space for it.
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Build capability. Many people want to make a difference but don’t know where to start. Providing guidance and tools can unlock their potential.
A Quick Word on Resources
If you’re thinking about setting up a champions network or boosting the impact of an existing group, there’s a brilliant Power Pack in The EX Space that walks you through exactly how to do it – from scoping and setup, to recruiting the right people, to sustaining momentum.
There’s also a great webinar on the topic available to members – full of practical advice and real examples.
Want help setting up or strengthening your own employee networks?
At People Lab, we support organisations to make their people strategy more human – and we’d love to help. Or, explore more inspiration and tools over at The EX Space.
