How Inclusion Attracts & Retains Top Performers

Is inclusion really important in the workplace? How is it relevant to the performance and success of a company?

These are valid questions.

In this competitive job market, companies can find people to work for them no matter their policies and work environment. But there is a huge difference in the output of the workforce that's working for just the money and the workforce that's there because they care beyond the paycheck.

In this edition of Let's Get Talking, we will explore why inclusion plays a key part in building the latter.?

Inclusion is not just a buzzword. It's not just the need to be politically correct in the current era. Rather it is a human and even strategic step towards building a mutually beneficial culture.?

Do you remember Maslow's hierarchy of needs?

For someone to achieve their full potential we first need our physiological and safety needs to be met. Followed by that we need our belongingness and esteem needs met. Inclusion plays a key role in making that happen.?When employees feel included irrespective of who they are or where they are from, they are more engaged, motivated, and productive. This, in turn, leads to higher retention rates and a more innovative and competitive workforce.

In contrast, if they are fighting battles or have to carry around a mask to cover up who they are, it leaves them drained, discouraged, and distracted.?

Apart from inclusion improving individuals' involvement and dedication to work, it also promotes wider perspectives and creates more opportunities. Organisations benefit from a more engaged and diverse workforce which also builds a stronger employer brand, attracting top talent who seek out inclusive workplaces.

The following numbers are examples of the impact inclusive culture can have on a company.

• Companies that have more gender diversity in their top ranks are 25% more likely to do better financially than companies with less gender diversity.
• Companies with a higher representation of diverse ethnic backgrounds in their top ranks are 36% more likely to outperform their peers financially.
• Companies with diverse workforces generate 2.5 times more cash flow per employee.
• Diverse teams are over 35% more productive.
• Diverse teams are found to make better decisions 87% of the time.

As you can see, these numbers show a significant difference that diversity and inclusion bring to business success.?

Steps to Creating an Inclusive Workforce

Creating an inclusive culture requires a commitment from leadership to do the following:

1. Reviewing recruitment and hiring practices to eliminate bias in job description and interview process.
2. Fostering an environment where every voice is valued and heard.?
3. Creating opportunities for everyone to contribute and succeed.
4. Encouraging open and honest communication to address any issues or concerns related to diversity and inclusion.
5. Providing training and resources to educate employees on the importance of diversity and inclusion.?
6. Implementing policies and practices that promote equality and fairness for all employees.

1. Start Conversation: Start a conversation with friends or colleagues about the importance of inclusivity.?
2. Educate Yourself: When it comes to diversity and inclusion there is a lot to learn. Take some time to educate yourself about the nuances of it.?
3. Reflect on Your Bias: Take some time to reflect on your own biases and how they may impact your interactions with others in the workplace. Be honest with yourself.?

Bias/preference is an inherent part of the mental makeup of every human being. It is created through one’s experiences, learning, cultural influences, and many more.

Understand how to reduce this bias towards the LGBTQ+ community and be their ally through this podcast.