Learn about the importance of diversity and inclusion and what you can do to promote it in your workplace.
Diversity in the workplace has become an increasingly important topic within the employment landscape. But it's not just about numbers, policies, and agendas. It’s about creating an inclusive environment where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered to contribute their unique perspective and ideas. Diversity goes beyond stereotypes to give meaning to our differences and promote togetherness. However, it's a complex and multifaceted issue that requires ongoing attention and effort from both organizations and employees like you.
The U.S. labor force is more diverse than ever before, and businesses must adapt to these shifting demographics. It’s also important to know that workplace diversity is essential for humanity’s evolution. When we prioritize diversity and inclusion, we help to create a more equitable and just society leading to greater social cohesion and improved quality of life for everyone.
In this article we look at the benefits of diversity and inclusion and show you how, as an employee, you can educate yourself, advocate for it and make it a priority in your workplace.
What is Meant by Diversity and Inclusion in the Workplace?
These two concepts have gained increasing attention over the past decade. Both are interrelated but refer to various aspects of a company's culture and practices. So, what is diversity and inclusion?
The first thing to know is that diversity in the workplace refers to the different characteristics among employees, such as race, ethnicity, gender, age, religion, disability, and sexual orientation. It’s important to note that these characteristics are enforced by laws that make discrimination illegal in the workplace. Apart from these protected characteristics, there are other external types of diversity such as education, socioeconomic background, marital status, appearance, and personal habits.
Inclusion refers to the extent to which everyone feels valued, respected, and included in the company's culture and decision-making processes. A diverse workforce is a valuable asset for any company. By having a variety of perspectives and experiences, employees are more likely to generate new and innovative ideas, which can lead to improved products and services.
Let’s take a look at some common types of diversity in the workplace:
• Ethnic and cultural diversity: In the workplace, you’ll likely have colleagues from different ethnic backgrounds and cultures, including yourself. This diversity shapes your identity, influences your behaviors, and enables you to learn from each other. When you educate yourself about other cultures it helps you understand different perspectives and dispels negative stereotypes and personal biases at work.
• Religious diversity: Fostering an inclusive environment for people from all religions is paramount. The first step is to be respectful and understanding of their differences. You're probably naturally curious about your colleague's religious beliefs, which is good! However, some may not be comfortable talking about it, in which case you can find plenty of online resources to educate yourself. At all costs, don't let the religious practices of your coworkers interfere with your work responsibilities or create a hostile environment.
• Gender identity/Sexual orientation: The support of LGBTQ+ rights has come a long way over the past two decades. In fact, in 2020, Supreme Court ruled it illegal to discriminate based on sexual orientation and gender identity in all 50 U.S. states. You can also do your part to support your LGBTQ+ coworkers. Help your colleagues by standing up for discrimination or harassment and advocate for their rights and inclusion in the workplace. Be mindful of your language, including pronouns, and avoid asking intrusive questions.
• Intergenerational diversity: In the workplace, embracing differences in age is essential. Whether you're a baby boomer, Gen X, Millennial, or Gen Zer, you and your colleagues will all have different attitudes, values, work methods, and communication styles. It’s important to note that Gen Zers are considered the most racially and ethnically diverse generation yet and are changing the workplace norm for the better. Because of this, it’s essential to find a commonality between one another and use your differences to learn from each other, so you can all bring new ideas and impactful solutions to your workforce.
Keep in mind that having diversity in the workplace is not enough. Employees play a part in creating an inclusive workplace culture that truly benefits from and celebrates diversity. This means employees from all backgrounds feel welcome and valued, regardless of their differences. In an inclusive workplace, you should feel comfortable sharing your ideas, opinions, and concerns and confident that your contributions will be considered and respected.
Workplace diversity also requires more than just good intentions. It involves concrete actions to ensure you feel included and valued as an employee. Therefore, equity must play an equal part in the company's ethos as well. Equity makes up a discipline known as DE&I, which stands for diversity, equity, and inclusion. It involves your employer implementing policies, practices, and initiatives that are impartial and ethical and allow you to get fairly compensated for your work.
So, what does this mean for you? It means that your employer should give you a fair chance to succeed based on your skills, abilities, and qualifications rather than your gender, race, religion, or sexual orientation. And you should make a conscious effort to take concrete steps to support your co-workers as well where you can.
Why is Diversity Important in the Workplace?
Now that you know how diversity, equity, and inclusion in the workplace can lead to a more fulfilling, productive, and rewarding experience for you as an employee, let’s look at some specific benefits of diversity in the workplace:
• Promotes creativity and innovation: When people from different backgrounds come together, building diversity in the workplace, they bring distinct experiences, knowledge, and perspectives. This diversity of thought and experience can lead to more creative and innovative solutions to problems. For example, if a team consists of people from different countries, they can bring various approaches to problem-solving based on their cultural experiences.
• Increases engagement: When you feel valued and included in the workplace, you're more likely to be engaged in your work. It can help you feel like your contributions and ideas matter, leading to higher job satisfaction, motivation, and productivity.
• Fosters a positive work environment: An inclusive workplace promotes respect, collaboration, and empathy among employees. When you feel you can be yourself at work without fear of discrimination or bias, you're more likely to build great relationships with your colleagues. This can lead to a more positive and supportive workplace culture, higher levels of engagement, and improved well-being.
• Improves mental health: Diversity in the workplace can have a positive impact on your mental health. When you feel your unique background and experiences are valued and appreciated, you're more likely to feel a sense of belonging and connection to your coworkers and employer. This can help reduce stress and increase feelings of well-being and happiness.
• Encourages cultural awareness and sensitivity: Working in a diverse and inclusive environment can make you more aware of and sensitive to different cultures and perspectives. It can help you develop a stronger sense of community and connection with your colleagues, which can help them feel more supported and less isolated.
How to Promote Diversity and Inclusion in the Workplace
As an employee, you have the ability to contribute to a more inclusive and welcoming workplace for everyone, which is why it's crucial to do your part. Remember, it's essential to commit to the process, value your colleagues' ideas and thoughts, and celebrate successes along the way.
Here are some ways that you can help promote diversity in the workplace, with examples:
1. Educate Yourself
One of the best ways to promote diversity in the workplace is to learn about the issues related to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). This could include attending training sessions, reading books and articles, and seeking diverse perspectives. You could also encourage your coworkers to share some of the customs associated with their cultures and backgrounds. By gaining a deeper understanding of these issues, you can become better equipped to recognize and address biases and discrimination in the workplace.
2. Speak Up
If you witness discriminatory behavior or hear biased comments at work, speak up and address the behavior. Remember to do this in a respectful and non-confrontational manner. For example, you can address microaggressions by gently pointing out the impact of the comment and offering alternative language. You can also advocate for workplace policies and practices promoting diversity and inclusion.
3. Challenge Stereotypes
Be a spokesperson for diversity issues that are not necessarily your own. Consider challenging stereotypes and assumptions by questioning your own biases while encouraging others to do the same. You can do this by avoiding assumptions about people based on their background or identity and being open to learning about different cultures and experiences.
4. Get Involved with Diversity Initiatives
Many organizations have diversity initiatives, such as employee resource groups (ERGs), committees, or other groups promoting pay equity and diversity in the workplace. You can support these by participating in them and contributing to their efforts. This could involve volunteering to chair or serve on a committee, participating in employee engagement surveys, suggesting initiatives, or helping to organize programs. Although these activities require a time commitment, they serve as a valuable opportunity for personal and professional development.
5. Embrace Diversity in Hiring
Consider encouraging your employer to embrace diversity in their hiring practices. This could include suggesting diverse candidates and advocating for inclusive recruitment strategies. By promoting diversity in hiring, you can help ensure that your workplace reflects the diverse communities it serves.
6. Be an Ally
Be an ally to your colleagues from underrepresented groups by actively supporting and advocating for them. Consider offering mentorship, providing feedback, and actively promoting their contribution to help create a more inclusive and supportive workplace culture.
7. Commit to Continuous Improvement
Accepting and promoting diversity in the workplace is a journey, not a destination. It takes time, commitment, and patience. Always remain eager to learn, listen to those around you, and allow feedback. Try to be patient with coworkers who may not appreciate the value of diversity or who may not always behave respectfully. Most often, negative thinking and behavior result from ignorance, not hatred. In the end, a willingness to educate can go a long way.
Be Part of a Diverse and Inclusive Workplace Culture
Connect with employers that encourage and support diversity in the workplace. Find a more diverse, inclusive, and positive work environment when you look for a job by signing up for a free profile on Monster. Connect with top recruiters by uploading up to five versions of your resume – each customized to the jobs and companies that pique your interest. We also send job alerts to help you find an employer that aligns with your goals and values.
This article is not intended as a substitute for professional legal advice. Always seek the professional advice of an attorney regarding any legal questions you may have.
Copyright January 1, 2024 - Monster Worldwide, Inc. All Rights Reserved. You may not copy, reproduce or distribute this article without the prior written permission of Monster Worldwide. This article first appeared on Monster.com. To see other career-related articles, visit https://www.monster.com/career-advice/.
