Leading organizations have long recognized the moral and business imperative of having a diverse workforce of women, people of color, and LGBTQ+ individuals. According to McKinsey, diversity is a source of competitive advantage and a key enabler of growth, and businesses that leverage the unique qualities of a diverse workforce are more likely to outperform those that don’t.
A diverse workforce alone, however, does not automatically yield better results. To effectively harness diversity to unlock innovation, increase profitability, and drive long-term growth, inclusion is needed.
Inclusion is about creating an environment where everyone feels valued and heard and where anyone with capability to excel can do so. A Gallup study found employees in an inclusive environment are more engaged, demonstrate higher advocacy for their organizations, and have a greater intent to stay.
"An inclusive work environment doesn't just happen, it requires sustained effort," Diana Ellsworth, McKinsey & Company.
Effective collaboration and people management requires inclusive behavior, so with the help of Real Biz Shorts, here are 6 best practices to help you support and sustain diversity, equity, and inclusion in the workplace.
Do your leaders encourage and nurture new ideas? When a leader has set ideas on specific topics it becomes difficult to get an alternative perspective across. Team members who feel valued and respected by their leaders are more confident and inspired to share their ideas.
Meetings are a great place to practice inclusivity. Make meetings more inclusive by minimizing behaviors or biases that are holding people back from participating.
If you want an office brimming with creativity and effective teamwork, you’ll need a truly diverse team. Make sure your team members are of varied backgrounds and viewpoints.
Creating more opportunities for continued engagement is critical to a successful DE&I program. When organizations enable employees to work in various roles, employees feel understood and appreciated.
Businesses that foster intergenerational teaming and learning create a more collaborative and engaged environment. Gain a competitive advantage in talent attraction and retention by enabling generations to learn from each other.
Productivity, collaboration, and well-being increases when employees can bring their whole selves to work without fear of judgement. Encourage employees to fully embrace who they are.
Looking for more creative and engaging ways to promote your DE&I initiatives? Contact us to learn how Real Biz Shorts can help you foster a more inclusive workplace.