Diversity is a concept that is often talked about alongside inclusion, as they are interconnected concepts that refer to the variety of unique individuals, that make up a group of people and the environment that allows them to work together as equally valued contributors. Workplaces that prioritise diversity and inclusion have been statistically proven to be safer, happier, and more productive work environments. This also leads to lower staff turnover rates.
Although diversity and inclusion are connected, diversity does have its own definition. Generally speaking, diversity means being composed of different elements. In the workplace, this would translate to the workforce being made up of employees with different races, gender identities, career backgrounds, skills and so on.
How important is diversity to your workforce?
- Only 19% of workers describing their workplace as having gender equality.*
- 60% of respondents in a recent survey believed that their employer was uncomfortable discussing race.*
- 64% of older workers in the UK report being worried about age discrimination.*
Top tips for managing diversity in the workplace:
Managing diversity in the workplace can present a set of unique challenges for HR and leadership. These challenges can be mitigated, if an organisation makes the effort to encourage a more diverse environment, through promoting a culture of tolerance, open communication and creating conflict management strategies to address issues that may arise. Below are some tips to help with managing diversity in the workplace:
- To progress diversity in the workplace, organisations should take a systematic approach, including building an inclusive culture and having inclusive policies and procedures in place that manage equality and diversity issues in line with company values.
- Ensure all policies have no inequalities and are fully inclusive.
- Managers must have ‘buy-in’ and commitment to diversity and inclusion and display this through all aspects of their management.
- Ensure there is no bias in the recruitment process, such as in job specifications and the selection process.
- Providing diversity training for employees to raise awareness that will help diverse decision-making.
- Encourage employees to work in diverse groups to help them value one another and learn more about cultural differences.
To ensure organisations see the impact of managing diversity, it is important to monitor progress. As an organisation you should be able to look back and see how diversity has been implemented and managed within the workplace and how this has made improvements to the company.
Managing diversity in the workplace can be difficult as many employers don’t know where to start. If you would like assistance with beginning your journey to a more diverse workplace then FusionHR can offer Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion training. Leave us a few details to request a call back from our team.
Watch back our Diversity and Inclusion webinar, as well as our other previous webinars here.
*Source: Crooton
