Creating a workplace culture that prioritises diversity and inclusivity?
As the country celebrates Dublin’s 40th Pride Parade and Festival it is important to consider how diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging are given priority in the workplace.
Creating a workplace culture that prioritises diversity and inclusivity is not only the right thing to do, but the smart thing to do. Research shows that diverse teams are more productive and make better decisions, leading to improved business outcomes. Moreover, with millennials being 16 percent more diverse than baby boomers, companies must prioritise building diverse and inclusive teams from varying backgrounds.
What is diversity?
Diversity encompasses the unique traits and experiences making each person who they are. These differences in backgrounds, personalities, life experiences, and beliefs shape how we see the world and approach life.
What is inclusivity?
Inclusivity is about creating environments where everyone feels welcome, identifying each individual's strengths and proactively planning for their success within a group ultimately leading to a sense of belonging, where everyone is and feels valued and accepted.
How can this be done?
Emphasise Partnership - using language like "let's work together" and "thrive" creates a sense of partnership between the company and its teams, building trust and rapport.
Access a Global Talent Pool - Having access to a global talent pool can help create diversity. Specific strategies in parallel to improve your company’s inclusive culture also require implementation.
Embrace Diversity & Inclusiveness - When promoting workplace diversity, it refers to creating an environment enriched by different perspectives of its members while being inclusive of their different characteristics. This creates an atmosphere where everyone feels equally listened to and involved.
Diversity & Inclusion Training Programmes - lay the foundation for how employees treat each other. Implementing this programme as part of the onboarding process provides specific information on the consequences of acts of discrimination.
Promote Employee Resource Groups - an employee-led group where workers participate on a voluntary basis promoting diversity and inclusiveness.
Open To Feedback - Being in continuous contact with employees' work experience makes them feel appreciated. This is increasingly important - statistics point to 66 percent of employees leaving their jobs if they do not feel appreciated.
Embedding diversity and inclusivity in companies helps employers access and benefit from the talents of diverse employees. Furthermore, employees wish to work for diverse and inclusive companies which can make a workplace more diverse and inclusive, leading to better business outcomes.
