Want a more diverse workplace? Start with inclusion.
Many organizations desire a more diverse workforce, but often start that transition in the wrong place. Some assume that attracting and retaining diverse employees starts with the "who": Who do we typically hire? Who tends to leave? Who is underrepresented? Who do we need to target?
Yet focusing on diversity first is like putting the cart before the horse. When organizations focus on the "who" of hiring, they're often missing out on important "hows": How are we welcoming, valuing, and supporting all employees? How are we ensuring a safe environment for people from diverse backgrounds? How are we creating a culture in which everyone can thrive?
When hiring processes focus on inclusive practices, organizations not only attract employees of diverse backgrounds, but ensure they actually want to stay. This, in turn, allows organizations to sustain a diverse workforce.
That’s why we suggest starting with inclusion, then working on diversity.
