Diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) in the workplace isn’t just a “feel-good” buzzword-driven concept — it can also bring tangible business benefits. All employers should be aware of the important role DEI plays in today’s workplace. Here’s why and how DEI can make a meaningful difference for organizations of all sizes:
What is Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion?
At its core, workplace DEI is about building a work environment where employees of all backgrounds – including gender, race, ethnicity, age, sexual orientation, disability, religion, education, skills, and more – feel respected and a sense of belonging. Implementing workplace DEI goes beyond having a few “diversity posters” on the wall and having just a few non-white/cisgender/heterosexual/abled/males in senior positions.
Employers need to have a comprehensive strategy in place to foster real diversity, equity and inclusion in the workplace. A DEI strategy should address topics such as recruiting, hiring and promotion; how to create a safe and inclusive workplace for all team members; and how to foster collaboration and communication between teams.
The Benefits of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
Diversity, equity and inclusion are beneficial for employers and employees alike. Here’s why:
Greater Innovation: A diverse and inclusive workplace encourages new, unorthodox thinking, which puts the organization in a better position to innovate and problem-solve.
Better Performances: Research shows that when team members feel respected and are included, they are more likely to perform better and take ownerships of their duties than when they are not.
Increased Profits: Studies have proven a correlation between diverse teams and higher profits. Investing in DEI strategies can have a positive impact on an organization’s bottom line.
A More Focused Brand: Companies with strong DEI strategies are better positioned to attract and retain the best talent. This helps set these organizations apart from the competition, as well as makes them more attractive to investors and partners.
How to Implement Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in the Workplace
Creating a more diverse, equitable, and inclusive workplace doesn’t happen overnight, but there are steps all employers can take to begin the journey. Here’s how to get started:
- Educate Leadership:
Leadership play a critical role in driving workplace DEI initiatives. Executives need to be made aware of the tangible benefits of DEI, and the importance of creating work environments that respect and include all employees. Leadership should also be required to attend workshops and training sessions to ensure they receive up to date information.
- Develop and Implement a Diversity Plan
Every organization should develop a comprehensive diversified plan to ensure it’s effective as possible. The plan should include goals, objectives, timelines and other key elements including, but not limited to:
● Developing recruiting, hiring, and promotion plans to increase diversity
● Establishing a system of accountability
● Creating a safe and inclusive workplace
● Assessing any existing policies and procedures and updating them if necessary
● Offering diversity training and education programs
● Encouraging employee resource groups
- Establish a Respectful Environment
Creating an environment in which employees of all backgrounds, including gender, race, ethnicity, age, sexual orientation, disability, religion, education, and skills feel respected is a key part of any DEI plan. Integrating accountability systems, having zero-tolerance policies in place for discrimination, and creating inclusive spaces are all parts of fostering an open climate for diversity.
- Create Internal Communication Initiatives
Creating a culture of inclusion requires ongoing communication, both within the organization, and outside it. This should include offering team building initiatives, sharing success stories, providing learning and development resources, and promoting internal mentorship. Sharing knowledge, expertise and resources can also be beneficial.
Diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives are becoming increasingly important in today’s workplace. Employers of all sizes and in all industries should have a comprehensive DEI strategy in place in order to stay competitive in the market. DEI plans have tangible benefits – increased profits, improved performance, greater innovation, and a more focused brand identity – that make their implementation worthwhile.
By following the four steps outlined above, employers can begin to cultivate more diverse, equitable and inclusive workplaces that are beneficial for all.
