As HR leaders, it is our responsibility to create a workplace that fosters a strong sense of belonging and inclusion, while also providing an employee experience that is meaningful and rewarding. To do this, we must focus on creating a workplace environment that is supportive of diversity and inclusion - one that encourages everyone to bring their best selves to work. It might sound straightforward, but it’s surprising how many forget along the way.
So lets explore the importance of diversity and inclusion in the workplace, and provide some tips for HR leaders to create a workplace culture that celebrates and values diversity.
Why Diversity and Inclusion Matters
In a study conducted by McKinsey & Company, it was found that companies with diverse management teams were more likely to outperform those with homogenous teams (source linked below). This means that a diverse workforce can lead to increased productivity, creativity, and innovation - all of which are essential to the success of any business.
In addition to its impact on the bottom line, a diverse and inclusive workplace can also make employees feel more valued and respected. When employees feel that their diversity is celebrated and their voices are heard, they are more likely to remain engaged and loyal to their organization.
Tips and Tricks for Creating a Diverse and Inclusive Workplace
- Start by creating a culture of respect. Achieving diversity and inclusion in the workplace starts with creating a culture of respect. Everyone should be respected and treated with dignity, regardless of their background or identity.
- Foster a sense of belonging. Everyone should feel that they have a place in the organization. This means creating a workplace environment that supports open dialogue, encourages employee feedback, and provides employees with the resources and support they need to succeed.
- Develop and implement policies that promote inclusion. To truly create an inclusive workplace, it is important to develop policies that promote equal opportunities and combat discrimination. These policies should cover issues such as harassment, recruitment and hiring, and performance management.
- Encourage open communication. When employees feel safe to express their opinions and ideas, they are more likely to contribute to the workplace in meaningful ways. This can be achieved through open discussion forums and surveys, as well as regular check-ins with employees.
- Invest in diversity and inclusion training. Diversity and inclusion training can help create an environment that is more respectful and equitable. This training should focus on topics such as unconscious bias, cultural sensitivity, and creating a sense of belonging.
Creating a diverse and inclusive workplace is essential to the success of any organization. By taking the necessary steps to create a culture of respect and belonging, HR leaders can create an employee experience that is meaningful, rewarding, and supportive of diversity.
1. McKinsey & Company. (2018). Diversity Matters. https://www.mckinsey.com/featured-insights/diversity-and-inclusion/diversity-matters
