Organisations who positively embrace diversity by leveraging the different perspectives, skillsets, and experience of their employees, are seeing an increase in productivity and a more creative and innovative working environment.
As a company, it’s essential to educate your management to lead a diverse workplace. It requires an understanding of the various types of diversity within a team, and the potential barriers that could prevent people from feeling included.
Diversity & Inclusion in 2023
Diversity & Inclusion (D&I) initiatives have become increasingly important over the past few years, but they will continue to grow exponentially in 2023. Employers are now prioritizing D&I initiatives such as salary transparency, inclusive language in job descriptions, pay equity measures, etc., which makes it easier for historically underpaid groups such as women and people of colour to get hired into better-paying positions.
To promote diversity in the workplace, it is important to create an environment that is welcoming, respectful, and supportive of people from all backgrounds. This can include creating policies that promote inclusion, providing equal opportunities, access to resources and recognising, and celebrating differences.
Six top tips to help embrace Diversity in the workplace
- In your job adverts or marketing literature, get rid of any language or practices that could be interpreted as exclusionary, anything that might be construed as discriminatory should be avoided.
- Create a culture where all voices are heard and respected. Find a way that works for your business where everyone is given the opportunity to voice their opinions and be listened to, no matter their gender, race, disability, or other characteristics that may hinder their experience.
- Develop a clear and concise policy on diversity and inclusion. This policy should outline what the company’s expectations are and the consequences for any incidents of discrimination.
- Provide training and education on diversity, and make sure everyone in the workplace is aware of the policies. This is important as understanding and appreciating others’ backgrounds and cultures is key to fostering a productive and respectful work environment. Some people may not be as aware of diversity issues that may occur in the workplace. If this is the case, education is key!
- Be aware of potential unconscious biases affecting decision-making. You should ensure that your recruitment processes are fair and that your selection criteria does not disadvantage any particular group.
- Employers should ensure that anyone in their team is not discriminated against and that employees are supported in their efforts to make the workplace a more inclusive place.
By embracing diversity in the workplace, organisations will reap the many benefits that it can bring, while also creating an environment that is welcoming and respectful to all.
Devonshire is an equal-opportunity employer, and we encourage job applications from people of all backgrounds. All qualified applicants will receive consideration regardless of gender, race, religion, age, disability, sexual orientation, or marital status – If you are recruiting in your team – reach out to us today!
