Diversity and inclusion (D&I) is getting more attention in the business world, and companies are adopting D&I policies at every level of their workforce. Building a diverse and inclusive company goes well beyond doing the right thing. This article explains what diversity and inclusion in the workplace mean and how to build both.
What is the difference between diversity and inclusion?
The two terms are often used interchangeably, but they are distinct concepts.
Diversity is about representation, or the makeup of a group. SHRM defines diversity as the “collective mixture of differences and similarities that includes for example, individual and organizational characteristics, values, beliefs, experiences, backgrounds, preferences, and behaviors.”
Inclusion is about how well the contributions, presence and views of different groups are recognized and brought into a setting. SHRM defines inclusion as the “achievement of a work environment in which all individuals are treated fairly and respectfully, have equal access to opportunities and resources, and can contribute fully to the organization’s success.”
A workplace with people of many genders, ethnicities, nationalities, sexual orientations and identities may be diverse. It is not inclusive if only some of those groups’ views are heard or carry any power or influence.
What are the benefits of a diverse and inclusive workplace?
Research has linked diverse and welcoming workplaces to several advantages:
- greater revenue growth
- more readiness to innovate
- a better ability to attract talent from a range of backgrounds
- 5% higher employee retention
Inclusion is one of the most important factors in keeping employees.
How do you build a diverse and inclusive workplace?
Building a diverse and inclusive workforce takes real effort, but it is worth it. The following strategies can help.
Inclusion policy
An inclusion policy describes how a business hires and supports workers from different backgrounds and groups. Diversity falls into two broad categories. Visible diversity covers traits that are easy to observe, such as race, gender and age. Non-visible diversity covers traits that may not be apparent, such as religion, disability, sexual orientation and socioeconomic background.
Every business needs an inclusion policy. It should state the organization’s commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion and the steps it will take to treat every employee fairly.
Recruitment and selection
Hiring people from all backgrounds is one of the best ways to build a diverse, equitable and inclusive workforce. You can focus recruiting on particular groups or organizations, or use methods such as online job ads and career fairs that are more likely to reach diverse candidates.
Employee resource groups (ERGs)
ERGs give employees a forum to share their experiences and views. This helps remove barriers and build a more inclusive culture.
Education and training
Education and training help employees learn about the backgrounds and experiences their coworkers bring to work, which supports a more diverse, equal and inclusive workforce.
Communication
Open communication is central to an inclusive workplace. Employees must feel comfortable raising issues that matter to them and talking openly about diversity and inclusion. The business should welcome suggestions and be ready to change in response to employee feedback.
Monitoring
Organizations should track their diversity, equity and inclusion efforts through surveys, discussions or focus groups. Monitoring helps reveal obstacles that keep employees from equality and inclusion.
Key takeaways
D&I supports a workplace where everyone can succeed personally and professionally. Bringing together people from different backgrounds produces fresh ideas, and a clear D&I strategy helps every employee feel valued because of their differences, not in spite of them. Workplaces that value diversity, equity and inclusion tend to be more creative and productive, attract strong talent and build better relationships with clients and customers.
Related Blogs
9 Ways to Improve Employee Engagement and Productivity at Work
Transforming Payments: Introducing FedNow - The Future of Real-Time Transactions
Related Industries
FDA Compliance
Medical Devices
Clinical Research
Audit Webinar
HR Compliance
Banking and Finance
Hospital and Healthcare
Packaging and Labeling
Accounting, Payroll and Taxation
Food and beverages
Software
Miscellaneous
Pharmaceutical