Is inclusion in companies an important aspect? Most leaders will tell you that yes. Inclusion not only reduces the inequality gap, helping to create a fairer society, it also promotes diverse environments, with all the advantages that this entails.
Now, what does it mean to be an inclusive company? Having a 50/50 male/female workforce, multi-generational teams, and removing the resume photo is a very good first step. But that’s just the beginning.
The real milestone lies in nurturing a company culture fully inclusive. That is, embracing the idea that each person, each idea, each experience and each perspective is unique and equally valuable.
And for that, the commitment of all the people who are part of the organization is essential , both the leaders who direct its course and the employees who turn plans into reality.
What is inclusion?
Inclusion is an integral concept in the modern business world, involving much more than just diversity in the workforce. While diversity seeks the presence of a heterogeneous spectrum of individuals, inclusion makes these people not only present, but makes them feel truly valued and respected.
Inclusion means offering equal access to opportunities and resources to every employee, regardless of their background, age, identity or abilities. In this sense, it involves creating a work environment where each person has a voice and can contribute their ideas and experiences without fear of being marginalized or misinterpreted.
In a truly inclusive environment, diversity becomes a catalyst for innovation and constant growth.
Why is it important to be an inclusive company?
An inclusive culture is a reflection of a modern brand that is aware of the needs of today’s society.
Employees seek to do their part through their unique talent and capabilities, and as leaders, our duty is to support and guide them to turn those differences into empowerment, not only creating more solid and united teams, but also as a tool to differentiate from other companies with better and greater benefits.
Because yes, inclusion is not only good for the community, it is also good for your business.
In an environment where each employee feels valued and an essential part of the team, motivation and productivity skyrocket .
In fact, according to one Gallup’s study, when workers feel respected and included, organizations thrive more and faster.
Here we leave you some interesting facts about inclusive companies:
- They are 1.7 times more innovative.
- They yield a 15 times higher return on investment.
- They make better decisions twice as fast.
- They have a 70% greater chance of capturing new markets.
- Three out of four candidates prefer them, making inclusivity an essential factor in accepting or rejecting a job offer.
In short: betting on inclusion is investing in success. So, how to be an inclusive company? Take note.
7 Characteristics of truly inclusive companies
- Engaged leadership: Inclusion starts at the top. Leaders who practice and promote inclusion set the tone for the entire organization, and are a model for the rest of the team.
- Clear and transparent policies: Rules and procedures must promote equality and avoid any form of discrimination in all – all – operational areas of the company.
- Adapted continuous training and development: Through mentoring, online courses, attendance at events or conferences. The goal? To ensure that all employees have equal opportunities for professional growth.
- Open communication: The constant flow of information allows ideas and concerns to be shared freely, promoting an environment of openness and trust where no one feels less than others.
- Flexibility and adaptability: Inclusive companies recognize and make an effort to adapt to the individual needs of each employee profile.
- Promoting teamwork: They encourage teams to work together and share ideas. This not only improves inclusion, but also leads to better outcomes thanks to the diversity of perspectives, knowledge and experiences.
- Focus on equity, not just equality: Therefore, if necessary, inclusive companies strive to adapt work spaces or provide additional resources. It’s no use having diverse people if they can’t put their skills into practice!
How do you know if your company is inclusive?
If you are committed to adopting inclusivity as part of your organization’s culture, but you don’t know if you are on the right path… ask your employees!
Our team of HR People specialists has designed for Team Insights a survey focused on Diversity and Inclusion that contains all the necessary questions to know if your actions are effective, or if you need to reorient the measures.
Take control of your organization now and start asking your people. If you want to launch your own survey, all you have to do is sign-up on Team Insights . It’s free!
