A 2020 survey shows that roughly 32% of job seekers would not apply for jobs at companies lacking a diverse workforce. The message from employees is clear: take diversity and inclusion in the workplace seriously, or risk missing out on top talent.
Inclusive workplaces have access to a wider range of employees and can draw on a greater diversity of experiences and skills. Inclusion in the workplace also increases employee satisfaction, making your workplace more productive. Done right, it can be the foundation of your company’s future success.
But how can you build a more inclusive workplace culture? Follow these steps, and you can start your company’s journey toward positive change.
Promote Inclusivity in Leadership
To make meaningful change in your workplace, you need buy-in from top-level executives. The company’s upper management team needs to be invested in your goals, so they can model diversity and inclusion for the rest of your employees.
Inclusivity in leadership is also important at the policy level. If you’re hoping to make changes to company policy, you will need management support.
One way to promote a more inclusive culture is to work with a DEI consultant. An expert in diversity and inclusion can help your leadership team build strategies for inclusion in the workplace. Click for DEI consulting services that can get your executive team on board.
Build Inclusive Recruitment Strategies
Once you have the support of your company’s leadership, it’s time to look at the rest of the company – including any barriers to entry for new employees.
Make sure your hiring managers have access to training. That way, they can approach the hiring process with their own unconscious biases in mind. This will reduce the risk of discrimination, and increase the diversity of your team.
Consider being more flexible in your requirements for experience or education, too. Many companies demand more experience or higher levels of education than they need from employees. This can deter candidates from applying, even when they meet all the other requirements of the role.
Create Opportunities for Feedback
Don’t forget your existing employees! If you want to foster diversity and inclusion in the workplace, you need to listen to their concerns.
Make sure you offer opportunities for your employees to share their experiences with you. They should be able to do this anonymously. That way, they can speak up without worrying about possible retaliation.
Whether it’s a survey, a suggestion box, or an all-hands company meeting, let your team know that their input is valuable to your company. Their wellbeing should be at the heart of your diversity and inclusion strategy.
Diversity and Inclusion in the Workplace
Inclusive workplaces enjoy fresh ideas and happier employees. Promoting diversity and inclusion in the workplace takes effort, but it’s worth your while. Over time, it means you can build a stronger and more successful company.
Like this post? Check out more of our posts on workplace culture today!
