Building an inclusive workplace builds happiness
Efforts to foster diversity in the workplace are widely accepted as a smart move for businesses.
We also know that diversity is just the beginning of an organizations’ efforts to embrace and value employees of different backgrounds which then leads to an inclusive workplace. As a result, many companies reap the rewards of happier employees, higher productivity and innovation, an enhanced company culture and improved performance from the workforce.
To implement inclusion and diversity fully into the workplace, we must first understand the difference between these concepts. Inclusion is the achievement of a work environment in which the differences and similarities of employees are recognized, individuals are treated fairly and respectfully, there is equal access to opportunities and resources and team members can contribute fully to the success of the organization. Diversity is the mix of people in the organization; based on characteristics that we can visually see as well as those characteristics that are not always as obvious like being an introvert or extrovert.
Change the way we think
Once we understand the difference between the terms, we must change the way we think about inclusion and diversity. All human beings are wired to have uncon
scious biases, which develop at an early age. These biases are developed over time as we are exposed to societal norms, the environment we live in and images in media.
Implicit biases impact behavior and often guide our judgments and decisions, but there are things we can do to reduce our own bias:
• Focus on seeing people as individuals.
• Increase your exposure to people from different backgrounds.
• Practice mindfulness.
• Take time to pause and reflect on your interactions.
• Try seeing things from the perspective of others.
• Work on consciously changing your stereotypes.
When we realize our implicit biases, it may be troubling. The good news is that they are not set in stone. It is possible to adopt new attitudes.
Improve the workplace
Building an inclusive workplace needs to begin with leadership. Inclusive leadership is the practice of leadership that centers around traits like developing cultural intelligence, being courageous in addressing bias and changing behaviors, being collaborative and moving beyond the usual suspects when identifying employees for special projects or mentoring.
An inclusive workplace is achieved when:
• Different perspectives are heard and valued.
• Others are seen and included at the table.
• Respect is demonstrated in big and small ways.
• The contributions of all team members are valued equally.
• You recognize the unique person in front of you.
One of the biggest challenges we see today is creating a workplace that is not only diverse, but a workplace that is also inclusive. The key is committing to action, from the boardroom to the lunchroom, to help create an environment where each person is empowered to fulfill their potential.