Diversity and Inclusion in the Workplace

Diversity and inclusion have been recent buzzwords in the workplace. Many businesses have actively been pursuing a more inclusive workspace by being more conscious of their environment.

Now is the time for businesses to think about diversifying the workplace.

Generation Z is catching upon on millennials as the majority of the workforce. As the labor pool gets younger and younger, the demand for a more inclusive workspace is growing. In an article published on Forbes.com, a report of 5,000 Generation Z students from 100 universities shows that an average of 7.5 value employer diversity.

To attract and retain the cream of the crop, employers must plan out how to become a more diverse and inclusive workplace that new talents can find happiness and success.

We’ve collected some thoughts and ideas on how to create a more diverse and more inclusive workspace.

Hire a workforce that resembles your community.

The first step to a diverse and inclusive workplace is a workforce that mirrors your business’ neighborhood. Hiring locals reflects that you care about the community as much as you care about your business. This also creates an amicable environment between businesses and communities.

Foosball and other perks are cool, but not enough.

A fun, upbeat work environment that provides unlimited snacks and food is a great way to entice new hires. But it’s glamour fades all too quickly. The younger generation needs to know that they work for a company that will help their career. A company that prioritizes its employees’ development and building an inclusive culture increase work productivity and creativity. Keep your staff motivated!

Flexibility is a key factor.

Every workplace is unique and has specific needs. Each employee and staff bring in new knowledge and experience to businesses. Make sure content and delivery reflect your unique workforce and staff.

Company culture should be in writing.

Publishing your company culture is a key factor for future employees. Use your website and social media to communicate your company’s culture and how it embraces diversity and inclusivity. New applicants look at websites and social media. They need to picture themselves working for your company.

View diversity as your strength, not a weakness.

Diversity increases creativity and overall community relation. Generation Z compared to other generations are more open and exposed to other cultures. A company that’s culturally diverse in highly competitive markets is an advantage your business needs.

Marketing materials that matter.

Develop marketing materials that are appropriate and reflective of your business. When it comes to creating materials, the typical white male visual is no longer enough to sell a product. Try adding people of color in the mix; it’s suggestive of the positive changes that are sweeping the world.

Create dialogue throughout the company.

Whether it’s about the LGBTQ community, people of color, women’s rights, or other important issues, keep the dialogue open to stay accountable. Studies have shown that successful companies engage in high levels of diversity and inclusivity conversation.