DEI policies are a necessity in modern-day organizations. They ensure employees feel safe and engaged, and this boosts overall productivity and growth metrics. But where do you start to implement DEI in the workplace?
Research from White, Patel, and Cassari’s study describes how organizational commitment to implement a diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) strategy is essential to establish accountability and responsibility in the workplace.
The researchers suggest that you can enhance your company's credibility and respectability by recruiting and retaining diverse talent and training individuals to be more culturally intelligent. This directly impacts sales and brand loyalty.
#1Build a positive, productive atmosphere
A productive atmosphere becomes a natural consequence where there is fairness and social justice. With diversity in the workplace, trust, individual security, and openness rise, which helps people feel more positive and connect better with the organization. This translates into increased motivation, commitment, and loyalty. Odunayo and Y Ng (2021), in a literature review, found that leveraging diversity promotes individual and organizational performance.
#2Help control attrition levels
According to a report, 52% of frontline workers feel undervalued by their employers, while 85% feel alienated. Hofhuis, Rijt, and Vlug (2016) conducted two quantitative studies that confirmed the relevance of trust and openness to ensure that team members feel included and safe. By elevating diversity in the workplace, you can ensure employees feel valued, secure, and included, and in turn, appreciate your company culture. This can make it easier for you to retain them.
#3Unfold a broader realm of growth possibilities
A McKinsey study found that companies with more than 30% of women executives outperform organizations with lesser female representation. That’s because diversity and inclusivity enhance brand image and attract more customers. Moreover, if your employees belong to different underrepresented groups, your chances of working with diverse clientele increase too.
While DEI has many benefits, effectively implementing it organization-wide requires taking a granular view of the two broad workforce segments- in-office and frontline.
