Diversity and inclusion have become increasingly important in the workplace over the past few decades. Employers are now realising that a diverse and inclusive workforce can bring numerous benefits to the organisation, including improved employee engagement, increased innovation and creativity, and a better understanding of diverse customer bases.
Historical Alterations
Historically, workplaces have been dominated by white, male employees. This was largely due to systemic discrimination and exclusion of women and minority groups from certain industries and professions. However, in recent years, there has been a shift towards more diversity and inclusion in the workplace. This change has been driven by a number of factors, including changing attitudes towards diversity, legal requirements, and the need to reflect the diversity of customer bases.
Markets
The markets have also played a significant role in driving the need for diversity and inclusion in the workplace. As companies expand globally, they need to be able to understand and cater to diverse customer bases. This requires a workforce that is reflective of the diversity of the customer base. In addition, research has shown that companies with diverse workforces are more innovative and better able to adapt to changing market conditions. This is because a diverse workforce brings a variety of perspectives and experiences to the table, which can help to identify new opportunities and solutions.
Impact of Diversity and Inclusion in the Workplace
The impact of diversity and inclusion in the workplace can be seen in a number of areas. Firstly, diverse workforces have been shown to have higher levels of employee engagement. This is because employees feel valued and included, which leads to higher levels of job satisfaction and a greater commitment to the organisation. In addition, diverse workforces have been shown to be more innovative and creative. This is because a variety of perspectives and experiences can help to identify new opportunities and solutions.
Secondly, diversity and inclusion can help to improve customer satisfaction. This is because a diverse workforce is better able to understand and cater to diverse customer bases. For example, a company with a diverse workforce may be better able to understand the needs and preferences of customers from different cultural backgrounds.
Thirdly, diversity and inclusion can help to improve organisational performance. Research has shown that companies with diverse workforces are more profitable and have higher levels of productivity. This is because a diverse workforce brings a variety of perspectives and experiences to the table, which can help to identify new opportunities and solutions.
Statistics
Statistics show that diversity and inclusion are becoming increasingly important to organisations. For example, a survey by Deloitte found that 69% of executives rate diversity and inclusion as an important issue. In addition, research by McKinsey found that companies with diverse workforces are 35% more likely to have financial returns above their industry average.
In conclusion, diversity and inclusion have become increasingly important in the workplace. This is due to a number of factors, including changing attitudes towards diversity, legal requirements, and the need to reflect the diversity of customer bases. The markets have also played a significant role in driving the need for diversity and inclusion in the workplace. The impact of diversity and inclusion can be seen in a number of areas, including higher levels of employee engagement, increased innovation and creativity, improved customer satisfaction, and better organisational performance. As such, it is important for organisations to embrace diversity and inclusion in order to remain competitive and successful in today’s global marketplace.