Imagine for a moment you’re living in an alternate universe — specifically, one where each individual you encounter is a carbon-copy of you. The inhabitants of this self-centered world look like you, talk like you, share your same interests… You probably already see where this is going!
Needless to say, the novelty of a world where everyone is identical to you would fade quickly. It’s why so many people today have come to appreciate and value diversity in all facets of life, including in the workplace.
While there are a vast amount of ways to foster and celebrate the unique nature of your company’s team, here are five ideas you can begin implementing today.
Offer Education and Training
Build company core values around the idea of welcoming differences between coworkers and peers. Create a company culture that fosters an environment of understanding and acceptance. Whether this process is handled by a third party workshop or tackled in house, focusing on education and training can have a major positive impact on opening lines of communication between the unique individuals that make up your team.
Establish an Accepting Tone Early
Your hiring process should include measures that encourage the recruitment of diverse professionals. Keep the momentum going throughout each interaction between potential employees and your company. Always accept properly qualified candidates regardless of their unique differences.
Implement Team-Building After Hours
Workplace gatherings are the perfect opportunity to allow your staff to meet, mingle, and get to know one another on a more personal level. Make a plan to host regular after-hours events. Just remember not to make them mandatory, with an understanding that some employees may have conflicting prior commitments.
Take a Second Look at Current Policies and Procedures
Review any current policies or documentation and update any language that no longer accurately reflects the beliefs and values of your company. Make it a priority to add verbiage that embraces people of diverse backgrounds and ideals.
Plan Formal Celebrations of Diversity
Host inclusive celebrations that recognize all the various backgrounds that create your team. Whether it’s a more broad “diversity day” or a specific cultural holiday, have some fun with it!
There are many dimensions of workplace diversity worth celebrating!
The modern workforce is more diverse than ever. Today’s offices are comprised of employees that encompass all corners of age, race and ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, disability, personality, socioeconomic status, education level, life experience… and that’s just the tip of the iceberg!
What are you doing to encourage diversity at your company? Hopefully this blog has offered a few takeaways you’ll consider applying soon.