There Is No Diversity Without Inclusion

Introduction

For too long, diversity has been positioned as a problem to solve. I disagree. I believe that diversity is the solution. Diversity of thought, perspective and lived experience is what allows us to build better teams, and ultimately build better products for our customers. Diverse companies are more likely to attract diverse teams and diverse customers because we understand their needs, their experiences and how to build for them.

I believe the key difference between these companies is that they all have a commitment to inclusion. An authentic commitment that starts from the top and trickles down through all levels of an organization. This commitment is not only important in making your company more diverse, it's also what will keep those employees around longer than most work anniversaries call for cake.

Inclusion is what connects people to the organization and makes them want to stay.

Inclusion is what connects people to the organization and makes them want to stay. Inclusion is more than just “diversity”; it's about making sure everyone feels included in the conversation, from all circles of influence—not just the C-suite or board room.

Inclusion means everyone has a place at the table (literally). It means that all points of view are considered for each decision, regardless of who brings them forward. And it means that when you walk into an inclusive company, you feel like your opinion matters and your voice will be heard.

Diversity in an organization leads to better teams, greater innovation, and more efficient decision-making.

The benefits of diversity are well-documented. The more diverse your team, the better it is at solving problems and making decisions. Diversity makes for smarter teams, in other words.

A variety of thought is key to a healthy organization—it helps you avoid group think and encourages creativity. When everyone says exactly what they think is true, it’s harder for your company to grow or adapt to changing circumstances than if there’s some healthy disagreement among members about what should happen next.

If you want innovation, creativity and even just good ideas from your employees—you need diversity!

Celebrate Differences To Make Everyone Feel Included.

To make everyone feel included, we must celebrate differences.

To make everyone feel like they can contribute, we must celebrate differences.

To make everyone feel like they belong, we must celebrate differences.

Educate Managers About Inclusion At The Workplace.

• Educate Managers About Inclusion At The Workplace.

As a manager, you are responsible for creating an inclusive and diverse workplace. It is your responsibility to help employees understand the importance of inclusion in their work life and how it affects the company as a whole. Be prepared to explain why diversity is important for success and make sure your team understands that being inclusive does not mean lowering standards or allowing anyone into any position just because they're qualified enough but rather hiring from within so that everyone has equal opportunity at advancement.

Diversity is getting a dinner invitation.

Inclusion. It's a word that gets tossed around a lot, but what does it really mean?

Inclusion is more than just getting an invitation to the dinner party. In fact, diversity is getting invited to the party in the first place. Diversity is saying yes to that invitation and showing up for dinner with an open mind and heart—but inclusion is also making sure everyone can enjoy their meal together.

If we're going to be successful at encouraging diversity within our workplaces, then we must also actively work toward creating inclusive environments where everyone feels welcome and valued.

Inclusion is what helps your team succeed.

Inclusion is not a program or initiative. It’s a culture, and it starts at the top—with you.

Inclusion isn't just about having diverse employees, but also about creating an environment where everyone feels like they belong and can contribute fully to the team. If your company isn't doing this, it's time to take action!

Conclusion

I’d like to think of inclusion as the glue that holds people together. Diversity is what gets you invited to the party, but inclusion makes you want to stay. As an employee (especially a minority), it can be difficult to feel like your voice is being heard and your ideas are welcome. But if you take the time to make everyone feel included, then your team will have no problem coming up with solutions that will benefit everyone — including yourself! And as an employer, it’s important that each person on your team feels valued for who they are so they can contribute their unique talents and perspectives without fear of judgement from others who don’t quite look like them or speak with their accent.