Creating an inclusive and diverse workplace is not just ethically the right thing to do, but also a prudent business move. As Richard Ghilarducci points out, an organization can unlock a wide range of benefits by embracing diversity and fostering inclusivity. It can lead to improved employee engagement, innovation and decision making. To build a diverse and inclusive workplace, business leaders need a comprehensive strategy that addresses diverse aspects of the work environment.
Richard Ghilarducci lists a few strategies for building a diverse and inclusive workplace
Diversity and inclusivity must go hand in hand in a workplace. While an increasing emphasis is been put on hiring diverse employees, one must also focus on creating an inclusive workplace culture. This helps make sure that everyone within the company feels supported and value, regardless of their gender or background.
Here are a few strategies to build a diverse and inclusive workplace:
- Cultivate an inclusive culture Cultivating an inclusive culture is the foundation of a diverse and inclusive workplace. Business leaders should foster an environment where each and every employee feels included, respected and valued. It is vital to establish clear guidelines and policies that prohibit discrimination. Open dialogue must also be encouraged at the workplace, and employees should be encouraged to share their ideas and concerns without fear of retribution. The priority must be to create a space where varied perspectives are acknowledged and celebrated.
- Recruit and hire with diversity in mind: When expanding their talent pool, a company must actively seek candidates from diverse backgrounds. This can be done through targeted outreach efforts. Job descriptions must also be reviewed with care and revised in order to eliminate any unintentional bias as well as promote inclusivity. It would be a good idea to implement blind resume screening techniques to remove identifying information and focus solely on qualifications and skills.
- Provide diversity and inclusion training: Awareness and education play a crucial role in fostering an inclusive and diverse workplace. Comprehensive diversity and inclusion training must be provided to each and every employee, right from the front-line staff to the top-level executives. This training should cover topics like inclusive language, cultural competence and unconscious bias. Such initiatives can be helpful in improving empathy, understanding and sensitivity among the employees, while also fostering a more inclusive environment.
- Establish Employee Resource Groups (ERGs): These are voluntary, employee-led groups that offer support, networking, and advocacy for underrepresented groups within a company. Formation of ERG groups can provide employees with a platform to connect and share experiences, and contribute to the creation of a more inclusive workplace. ERG groups may also serve as valuable resources for management, and provide them with insights and recommendations on diversity and inclusion initiatives.
As Richard Ghilarducci says, business leaders must regularly review the policies and procedures of their organization to make sure that they align with diversity and inclusion objectives. Areas like recruitment, promotions, benefits, and performance evaluations must especially be examined for potential biases or barriers. The focus should be put on having transparent and objective criteria for decision-making processes.
