Diversity in the Workplace: How to Support the Needs of Employees
In today's global and interconnected world, diversity has become increasingly important. A diverse workplace brings a range of benefits which have been well cited, including improved creativity and innovation, better decision-making, and increased employee engagement and retention. However, a 2022 report by McKinsey highlights that only 45% of companies are confident that their workforce reflects the demographics of today’s marketplace. A worrying statistic when you consider that Deloitte found that inclusive companies are almost twice as likely to be considered innovation leaders in their market.
Over the past few years, “diversity” has become a buzz word, and the term is open to interpretation. But for the purpose of this article, we define it as; “Creating an inclusive environment where employees from different backgrounds, abilities and cultures can thrive together.”
It encompasses gender, socioeconomic, and cultural diversity, as well as other unique perspectives and experiences. Included in this is neurodiversity which is the term used to describe the natural variation in human brains and neurological traits. It acknowledges that differences in neurological functioning, such as autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and other conditions are normal variations of the human experience rather than disorders that need to be cured or fixed.
At Danton we believe that by supporting diversity and neurodiversity in the workplace, we can celebrate the unique perspectives and individual strengths which in turn will promote a more inclusive and accepting society that accommodates diverse ways of thinking and learning.
Some business owners may have hesitancies around diversity within their workforce, but this can often stem from a lack of confidence in knowing what to do, or a fear of doing something “wrong.” Good HR support and a diversity champion can go a long way to ensuring that you remain compliant as an employer and have the best processes in place to support and engage all employees.
At this point, it is also important to point out that assumptions should never be made about what people might be “good” or "bad” at. We support business owners regularly in adapting their workplaces and communication style to get the best out of everyone. This could include something as simple as offering flexibility in working hours or location.
Making a few small tweaks to policies and process, in order to foster a diverse workplace can have considerable benefits. In addition to increasing your breadth of knowledge, experience, insight and seeing the world through different lens there are a number of other benefits including:
Increased creativity and innovation
A diverse workforce naturally provides a range of experiences and ideas. Employees from different backgrounds and perspectives may approach problems in unique ways, which can lead to more effective solutions and better outcomes for the business and other employees.
Better decision-making
A diverse workplace offers an alternative range of knowledge and expertise, which can help to improve decision-making. Exploring alternative insights and perspectives can help identify potential problems or opportunities that might otherwise be missed.
Increased employee engagement and retention
Employees are more likely to be engaged and committed to their work when they feel valued and respected. When they feel that their unique skills and perspectives are being utilised it can provide an enforced sense of accomplishment and belonging.
However, simply having a diverse workforce is not enough. To truly reap the benefits of diversity, employers must also create a supportive and inclusive workplace culture that supports the needs of all employees.
To support the needs of employees, we suggest:
1.Create a culture of inclusivity - This involves actively promoting and valuing diversity, and creating a workplace where all employees feel welcomed and respected.
2. Provide diversity and inclusion training - This can help educate employees on the importance of diversity and inclusion, as well as provide practical strategies for creating an inclusive workplace culture.
3. Offer flexible work arrangements - This can include offering flexible hours, remote work options, or job-sharing arrangements, which can help employees balance their work and personal responsibilities.
4. Address bias and discrimination - This includes creating policies and procedures that prohibit discrimination and taking swift action when incidents of discrimination occur.
This not only enhances creativity and innovation but also fosters a sense of belonging, where everyone feels valued and appreciated. A diverse workforce that reflects the world around us can lead to greater success and positive societal impact.
Supporting diversity in the workplace brings a range of benefits, including increased creativity, better decision-making, and increased employee engagement and retention. But to truly reap the benefits it is important that employers create a supportive and inclusive workplace culture that supports the needs of all employees.
As advocates of diversity and developing more inclusive workplaces, we are on hand to support businesses and business owners in all aspects; from remaining legally compliant through to delivering tailored DE&I training and offering online eLearning solutions.
If you would like further information on any of the information outlined above, call us on 01527 306 760.