Diversity in the workplace is good for business and research shows that companies ahead of the game are seeing very positive results at all levels of the organization.
So, what does diversity in the workplace mean? Gender diversity, ethnic diversity, cultural diversity, academic diversity, socio-economic diversity, disability diversity, etc……
Most companies recognize the long-term benefits & value-creation, however, the real challenge is creating an environment that values differences and embraces diversity at all levels of the organization.
Diversity challenges the status quo, conformism, and traditional ways of hiring, on-boarding, promoting, career advancement, etc… We know that diversity inspires innovation, facilitates agility and resilience, opens new doors in the workplace, creating better outcomes for everyone (employees, clients, companies, etc…).
Accelerating Diversity
For all of our customers, diversity is high on the list of priorities, however, in reality, progress is slow. Some venture into diversity without preparing the terrain, hoping that a few quick recruitment projects to integrate some diverse talent will initiate change internally. This is risky, opportunistic and not sustainable. The workplace environment is not prepared to embrace diversity, nor to value the very different backgrounds.
While others prepare the terrain, develop the vision, the diversity & inclusion strategic frameworks, invest time, money & energy to create the inclusive work environment necessary for sustainable success.
In other words, provide staff with relevant tools and training to foster diversity, open minds, mitigate biases, etc,, and create an environment that values differences and enables people to thrive at work …
By raising diversity & inclusion awareness initiatives internally, and engaging all levels of the organization in programs to highlight why “diversity matters”, employers can enhance their image as an employer of choice externally. What happens internally will & can impact external image.
For example, when companies leverage diversity, inclusion & equity initiatives to promote a broader scope of career opportunities for employees within the company, this will impact employee engagement. Happy employees are natural magnets to attract candidates, clients, consumers, etc without hesitation. Unhappy employees will do the opposite.
Here is an interesting link from McKinsey – Why Diversity Matters