What does an inclusive workplace look like?
Consider the impact on your overall well-being and sense of fulfilment when you don’t feel appreciated by your employer, when you can’t authentically express yourself in the workplace, or when your manager constantly undermines your worth. These are not hypothetical situations but rather common occurrences that occur more frequently in the workplace than one might realize.
Creating an inclusive workplace culture is very different from superficial diversity, where companies aim to have a mix of genders, races, and sexual orientations solely for appearances on promotional materials. Inclusion happens on a daily basis from onboarding to an employee’s last day on the Job.
In a recent Deloitte survey, 80% of employees consider inclusion an essential factor in choosing an employer.
Inclusivity is crucial not only for initially establishing workplace diversity but also for sustaining it over time. Building a culture where every team member feels valued and respected demands greater dedication and investment.
Here we are discussing five practices for creating an inclusive environment:
ASK
According to research, employees who experience a strong sense of belonging (95%) and engagement (92%) are significantly more likely to feel heard, compared to those with low levels of belonging (25%) or engagement (30%).
To foster meaningful progress, it is essential for company leaders to regularly seek feedback from employees and share the results at the team level.
EMPOWER
In recent years, significant cultural events have prompted vital discussions on inclusion that are now occurring more frequently in the workplace compared to previous years. However, it is crucial to recognize that without providing employees with opportunities and platforms to address issues of exclusion and disparity and to express authentic and candid feedback, companies run the risk of inadvertently isolating their employees and impeding the attainment of their inclusion objectives.
INTEGRATE
Don’t forget change starts at the top.
Creating a truly inclusive environment requires companies to provide a broad spectrum of connection opportunities, including social clubs, events, and more. It is vital that these opportunities are extended to and embraced by every individual, ensuring that everyone feels genuinely welcomed. This proactive approach enables employees to actively contribute to cultivating an inclusive workplace culture.
INVITE
By establishing Employee Resource Groups (ERGs), organizations communicate to their employees that there is a dedicated space for them within the company where they can experience a genuine sense of inclusion, safety, and value.
ERGs not only foster a feeling of belonging among employees but also provide valuable coaching and mentorship opportunities. These initiatives significantly contribute to enhancing the retention rates of a diverse workforce.
RECOGNIZE
In order to encourage and sustain organizational change, it is crucial to recognize behaviours that promote diverse input and perspectives, appreciates individuals who create inclusive groups encompassing colleagues from diverse backgrounds, and acknowledge those who bravely express differing opinions.
Acknowledging employees’ efforts not only promotes their future success but also boosts morale and cultivates a more engaged workforce. By recognizing and valuing these contributions, organizations foster a positive and inclusive work environment that drives meaningful change.
As the benefits of an inclusive workplace unfold, what was once perceived as daunting tasks become transformative opportunities for growth and engagement.
Though it can’t be done overnight, we all can walk the talk till we achieve it.
