Inclusion in the workplace is critical for any organization that wants to build a strong sense of connection and belonging and an engaging culture. One of the biggest workplace inclusion challenges facing companies today is creating a diverse and inclusive environment. Although removing this barrier is difficult, it is certainly not impossible. Many organizations have understood the importance of diversity, but not inclusion.
Why is it important?
According to Deloitte’s report on diversity and inclusion, a growing body of research shows that diverse and inclusive teams outperform their peers. Companies with inclusive talent practices in hiring, promotion, development, leadership and team management generate up to 30 percent higher revenue per employee and greater profitability than their competitors. Without a strong culture of inclusion and flexibility, a team-oriented model involving diverse individuals may not perform well.
The relationship with diversity
Diversity does not exist without inclusion. When employees feel included, they experience a sense of belonging, which leads to increased positive performance outcomes and creates collaborative teams that are innovative and engaging. Employees who feel included are more likely to be positively engaged in the organization. Higher employee engagement leads to higher levels of productivity, retention and overall company success.
Without inclusion in the workplace, diversity efforts will fail. Training staff and their managers, listening and communicating effectively, and encouraging employees to be fully authentic are some of the ways to create an inclusive environment.
The relationship with employee engagement
Inclusion creates employee engagement and a sense of belonging. For organizations to have successful talent, they must embrace and foster engagement. Along with employee engagement, organizations need to ensure they are diverse and have an inclusive environment. Employees need to feel a sense of belonging. Engagement, diversity, inclusion and belonging go hand in hand.
