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Research utilizing equality and diversity benchmarks and indices -- such the UN Gender Inequality Index or SHRM Global Diversity Readiness Index -- has been scarce, although it has the potential to generate research clusters and foster greater comparative research work. The indices can be used to benchmark and assist with public policy setting aimed at eliminating inequality and improving the welfare of socially disadvantaged. There have been critiques that some indices were biased, rigid, and simplistic. This symposium seeks to unpack these indices to: (1) identify the strengths and weaknesses inherent within each index, and (2) uncover potential biases in indicators that may potentially exist. The goal is to develop a more targeted Global Diversity and Inclusion Index that is useful for facilitating cross-national and comparative research on equality and diversity. This symposium is an outcome of the Global Diversity and Inclusion Benchmarking Caucus (AOM# 10106) at the 2016 AOM Meeting in Chicago. The goal is to bring together scholars and practitioners from across the world who are interested in equality and diversity, in order to develop a Global Diversity and Inclusion Index. This will ultimately encourage greater comparative research and dissemination of knowledge across different countries and regions, and generate a stream of research projects (including datasets) for presentation at future AOM meetings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sheryl Sandberg's book titled 'Lean in: Women, work and the will to lead' was published on March 11, 2013 and has since sold approximately 1.6 million copies. In a world where the lack of female advancement to senior positions in organisations has long been a cause for concern, we ask what is it about Sheryl Sandberg's 'Lean In' approach that is resonating with women, and some men, around the world? Further, considering what we already know on barriers and facilitators to women's advancement, we ask: is there any learning from the Lean-in(g)? The book has generated much comment, and views from the general media are mixed. In respect of the academic community, there has to date been little comment. The purpose of this symposium is to engage a panel of six diversity scholars (including a contributor to the Lean In book) from three different countries to provide their views on these positions and on other issues such as: (1) What does the 'Lean In' phenomenon tell us about what women in organisations are seeking in respect of the advice and practical guidance to advance their careers? (2) Is there any new learning in the approach and if so, what is it? (3)Is the approach appropriate for the 21st Century, or are we drawing on a framework rejected some time ago?. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]