6 Tips for Diversity & Inclusion in the Workplace

Diversity & Inclusion in the Workplace: See the chance and take it

Our companies should be just as diverse as our society is, but unfortunately that is not always the case. This is why we must understand that more diversity and inclusion in the workplace is a chance for companies to do better. The work practice enriches the business world and holds a lot of advantages, such as how you can use diversity as a strength. Learn about what diversity and inclusions means and the 6 tips we have for making your workplace a more diverse and inclusive space for everyone.

What is diversity and inclusion?

Before you can understand corporate diversity as a strength, you need to understand what diversity is at first. Corporate diversity means employing people of different ages, sexes, genders, sexual orientations, ethnicities, skin colors, religions, philosophies, and ability statuses, to name a few. In order for businesses to understand that diversity and inclusion in the workplace can be a strength and use that value, we need to make sure everyone is accepted, included and safe in their respective companies.

6 tips on how to promote diversity and make a change

If you are unsure what to do or where to start, check out these 6 tips to help you promote even more diversity and inclusion in your workplace. This is only the starting point though as there are many ways to bring more diversity and inclusion into your office and beyond.

1. Understand diversity as an opportunity

A diverse work environment is the best setup for your company to face a globalized and ever-changing world. Recognize the individual potential of each employee and use their strengths so that your team achieves amazing results. Then, every employee will be able to flourish along with your company. Do not look at differences as obstacles, instead value them and see how different personalities, experiences, career stages and skill sets can discuss ideas and find solutions you would never have imagined.

2. Hire diverse people

As clear as it sounds, you should start by hiring more diverse people. Diversity in companies represents their openness to hiring employees of all profiles, sexes, genders, ethnicities, skin colors, ages, beliefs and so on. Once you establish your company as a tolerant and open employer, be sure you will attract amazing talents you would have never discovered!

In order to actively attract diverse talents, adjust the way you research and select candidates. Also hire managers that know how to implement actions that promote and encourage diversity within the organization. Establish mentoring programs, discuss some topics, and celebrate the benefits together.

3. Practice equality

Actually, what more is there to say? Practice equality. Do not exclude people based on one or more of their attributes. Equality starts with the application process, and it does not end with salaries, promotions or pay raises. Practice equality and equity – and practice them every day. This could mean paying people the same amount of money for the same position. It could also mean making sure your team leads and management level is diverse too. 

4. Get professional diversity management

A lot of consulting agencies have already realized how important diversity management is and offer their services for other companies and organizations. Ask a consultant to help you build a diverse and inclusive workplace. This could mean your brand hires a diversity manager yourself or educates your management and staff on it.

5. Year-round allyship

Promoting equality is important on every day of the year, not only during Pride month or when a specific occasion arises. Continue to stay an ally all year round. Show that you are an open employer or organization not just because you profit from a colorful Pride month, but because you care and you mean it.

If you are planning on participating in some Pride celebrations, consider bulk ordering some promotional Pride swag to hand out.

6. Support organizations

Another thing you can do is to support organizations, whether it may be morally, financially, actively or in any other form, that help people and other groups. Contributing financially to an organization or charities is very helpful because they know well how to target their support. Another great opportunity to make a difference is to volunteer your time. Gather your staff to show up in person to make a difference and encourage others to do the same.