Why diversity, equality, and inclusion (DE&I) really matters

By Emily Fenton , VP Business Operations (UK & EMEA).

You don't have to look very far or research very long to find a vast array of articles about the benefits of having a diverse workforce, with topics often discussing:?

• Attracting and retaining talent
• Creating stronger collaboration
• Improving overall well-being and experience

In support of World Kindness Day 2023, I wanted to share a personal story on why DE&I really matters in the world of work.

Over these last few years, I've seen someone I care deeply about be diagnosed with autism. I have been able to see how they experience the world—personally and professionally—from a neurodiversity perspective; how it has affected their way of thinking, approaching problems, dealing with stresses and anxiety, and engaging with others.?

Their experience has opened my eyes to how differently they approach the world and, maybe more importantly, how I approach them. This created an opportunity to get to know myself and learn how my own background, culture, upbringing, and emotional life experiences have shaped how I live in the world.

One thing that has become especially clear to me over these last few years is: When you take the time to explore and understand yourself—your background and culture—you begin to understand yourself on a deeper level. You see why you do what you do, why you respond to the world the way you do, how you approach problems, how you deal with stress and anxiety, and how you live and work with others. As you get to know yourself, your authentic self begins to flow out over everything you do, including your career. You bring all the things to work that make you you.?

But when your authentic self truly shapes the way you work and live in the world, there comes, too, a sense of vulnerability. You run the risk of people not accepting who you really are at your core.

To be quite honest: We need to cultivate and grow places that offer everyone the opportunity to feel psychologically safe to share their authentic self. ??

We need to foster places where others respect who we are, where we've come from and how we experience the world—a place where the negative experiences are understood and supported as we adjust to how they affect us and others around us.

We need a place where positive experiences are encouraged to blossom and grow.

At Altera Digital Health, we are creating places like this all across the globe. We believe strongly in the authentic self and the power that comes from it, in everyone. We champion all of our associates as they grow, and we strive for an environment where they respect themselves and others. Creating a workplace where DE&I matters is building a community in which individuals are respected and their authentic selves can find a safe place to work, thrive and flourish.

To learn more about joining our team, please see our current vacancies here.