Guide: Bringing about diversity and inclusion in the workplace

Diversity and inclusion in the workplace – what does it actually mean?

Every employee is different, with their own individual preferences, background, and challenges. Everyone who works for a company is unique and has unique characteristics, which can include gender or gender identity, age, or even physical and mental disabilities.

Diversity in a business context is about seeing all employees and all their personal characteristics as a bonus for your company and bringing them together successfully under one roof. The aim is to create an open and tolerant corporate culture – a value system that excludes discrimination and disadvantage. Instead, the focus is on equal opportunities, appreciation, and fostering individual skills.

Inclusion refers to the process of creating, implementing, and sustaining this culture. This involves measures that create a framework of equal opportunities, even though everyone is different, and enabling people to participate in a world of work that is tailored to their skills and requirements.

Why companies benefit from diversity and inclusion in the workplace

Diversity and inclusion in the workplace don’t just reflect the prevailing mood; a tolerant and appreciative corporate culture actually delivers clear benefits, including:

• Innovation: When lots of different people work together, they help create solutions that encompass a range of perspectives. This often produces more innovative results.
• Image: Right now, diversity is very popular with customers, so brands must demonstrate that they are actually serious about diversity within their company.
• Business processes: A versatile team can potentially operate more efficiently in niche markets and serve specific target groups.
• Recruiting: These days, many professionals are looking for an appreciative culture when deciding whether to apply for a job. Consequently, companies that are transparent about communicating and modeling diversity do better on the job market.
• Efficient: Satisfied employees who feel appreciated are usually significantly more motivated and deliver better results.
• Costs: Satisfied employees are also sick less frequently and are loyal to their employers. Fewer absences and less employee turnover save companies money.

Transformation: Achieving diversity and inclusion in the workplace

What do companies need to keep in mind when it comes to diversity and inclusion in the workplace? Which aspects play a part and what practical approaches are available? Our new guide “Diversity and inclusion in the workplace” gives you a comprehensive overview. Read it to find out more about the dimensions involved in diversity, what is needed for good diversity management, and what steps you should take next. As always, the download is free for you as a member of the DMEXCO community. If you aren’t a member yet, then register free of charge now!