Having a diverse and inclusive workplace is essential for any successful business in today’s world. Diversity and inclusion within the workplace can be defined by having a variety of perspectives, backgrounds, ideas and cultures represented amongst the workforce. Not only can having a diverse and inclusive workplace bring a range of benefits for the employer, it also helps create a supportive and empowered working environment, where everyone is respected and accepted.
The Benefits of a Diverse and Inclusive Workplace
Having a diverse and inclusive workplace has a huge number of benefits, including:
Improved creativity
Brainstorming with co-workers from a range of backgrounds can help generate ideas that you may never have considered. It also opens up the opportunity for different perspectives and angles to be discussed and explored. Additionally, different skill-sets can bring different problem solving techniques to the table, leading to more successful outcomes. It is therefore essential that a working environment is created where every employee feels comfortable to speak-out, offer their opinion and be their ‘true self’.
Increased productivity
Having a diverse team also leads to increased productivity.This is due to the variety of skills held by different members of the team.Team members are able to leverage off each other’s strengths and add their own individual expertise. Team members may also come from a variety of different cultures and backgrounds, which often helps to improve communication internally and with external stakeholders of customers. There is little merit in building a team of similar people from similar backgrounds.
Increased morale, and reputation
A diverse and inclusive workplace often leads to higher morale. This is due to the more welcoming environment that can be found when a variety of perspectives are accepted and respected. Team members feel as though they have a sense of belonging, and that their opinions and ideas are valued.This often leads to more motivated, engaged and productive employees. Moreover, word will get out if your organisation is renowned for its inclusive and welcoming vibe and the office culture will become enviable in the marketplace –this can lead to a great reputation as a company, and can help improve staff attraction and retention.
How to Create a Diverse and Inclusive Workplace
Creating a diverse and inclusive workplace requires a conscious effort. Here are a few steps to get you started:
Recruitment
When it comes to recruiting, it is important to source from a wide range of sources. This includes actively seeking out under represented groups either through external recruitment practices or internal programmes like employee referrals. Additionally, adopting an open attitude to recruitment is also important. If a potential employee’s experience and skills match what your business requires, then they should be given the same opportunity as any other candidate. Anonymous shortlisting and removing barriers in the application process are also ways to mitigate unconscious bias in the initial selection process. Ask yourself critical questions: Am I favouring this candidate because they went to a certain University? Would a blind person be able to apply for this role via our current application method?
Education
Education is essential when aiming to create a diverse and inclusive workplace. Training should be given to all members of the team on how to be aware of and respect diversity. This could include teaching on general etiquette, such as how to use gender-neutral language or how to understand different cultures, and the benefits of embracing them. Appointing or allocating a learning & development role internally to someone focused specifically on training staff on diversity & inclusion can be very useful.
Promoting an inclusive environment
It is also important to actively promote an inclusive environment. This could involve facilitating team building activities such as regular staff socials, forums or creating opportunities to collaborate on projects. Furthermore, it is important to ensure a respectful working environment. This can be done by providing opportunities to have difficult conversations, listening to feedback, and taking action on any issues raised.
Having a diverse and inclusive workplace can, and should, bring many benefits to any organisation!
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