Why inclusion is fundamental to success

Hana Dickinson

The terms diversity and inclusion are often coupled together and used interchangeably, but understanding how inclusion differs from diversity and the benefits of an inclusive culture can make a huge difference to your employees and your business.

What is inclusion?

Whereas diversity in the workplace refers to ensuring your workforce contains the full range of demographic differences, such as race, religion, gender, age, and sexual orientation, inclusion refers to creating a culture where every employee feels valued, accepted and equal.

In other words, inclusion relates to how employees feel at work. Even if a workforce is diverse, unless everyone feels respected or encouraged to participate, some employees may feel uninspired and as if they don't belong.

According to Alison Maitland, co-author (with Rebekah Steele) of 'INdivisible: Radically rethinking inclusion for sustainable business results', "Without inclusion, diversity remains unfulfilled potential." (1)

Therefore, for a company to reach its full potential, diversity and inclusion should both be present in all business policies, practices, and strategies from the leadership team down.

How can inclusion create beneficial change?

Employee engagement

An inclusive culture where everyone feels valued and free to contribute on equal terms leads to a happier workforce. When employees feel genuinely part of a team they are more likely to want to share their ideas and opinions. As a result, productivity will increase and the business will benefit from a diverse range of skills and experiences.

Attract the best talent

Research has show that employees want to work for businesses who recognise the importance of an open and inclusive workplace. An inclusive company may therefore find it easier to retain and recruit top talent. In one study, 39% of respondents reported that they'd turned down or decided not to pursue a job because of a perceived lack of inclusion at an organisation. (2)

A competitive edge

Inclusion can give companies a competitive edge. By promoting a culture where everyone feels welcome to speak up and contribute, a company is more likely to benefit from a diverse range of perspectives that could help shape and develop new projects, products, and services.

Business growth

Having an inclusive culture throughout a business has been shown to positively affect a business's bottom line. One study on Diversity and Inclusion at the Workplace found that companies with 'inclusive talent practices in hiring, promotion, development, leadership, and team management' generate up to 30% higher revenue per employee and greater profitability than their competitors. (3)

To find out more about how we can help embed an inclusive culture of success within your business get in touch.

References

(1) https://knowledge.wharton.upenn.edu/article/inclusion-helps-companies-succeed/

(2) https://www.mckinsey.com/business-functions/organization/our-insights/understanding-organizational-barriers-to-a-more-inclusive-workplace

(3) https://www2.deloitte.com/us/en/insights/focus/human-capital-trends/2017/diversity-and-inclusion-at-the-workplace.html

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