In 2018, Starbucks made national news when it closed its stores for all workers to attend unconscious bias training. This occurred after an incident in a Philadelphia Starbucks where two young Black entrepreneurs were subjected to the police called on them and were asked to leave the store only 10 minutes after their arrival. Their “crime,” you might ask? They were waiting for a meeting to start and had bot ordered anything.
“Starbucks is a microcosm of what’s happening in the United States,” said Jen Randle, a consultant who helped coordinate these trainings. “We all have biases. It doesn’t matter your race or ethnicity.” With Starbucks serving a microcosm of society, this type of incident could happen in any workplace too.
Let’s explore how diversity training in the workplace can benefit every team.
Benefits of Having a Diverse and Inclusive Workplace
Diversity Offers New Perspectives
Not all individuals think or see the world the same way. Hiring people from diverse backgrounds, faiths, or socioeconomic groups allows you to gain new points of view in your workplace. These differences are what benefit your organization and enhances its problem-solving skills.
Improved Retention Rate
A company focused on diversity when hiring is more likely to retain its employees longer. When biases affect hiring decisions, whether related to ethnicity, age, faith, gender, age, or another factor, you may not be hiring the best talent. Having a diverse and inclusive workplace takes this into account in its hiring practices. Companies that prioritize diversity are more likely to identify the best possible talent.
Diversity Increases Profit
It’s no surprise that businesses focus on profitability. The good news is that focusing on diversity – and enhancing it in your workplace – can improve your bottom line. One McKinsey report found that companies in the top quartile for ethnic and racial diversity in management were 35 percent more likely to have above-average profits. Another study by BCG found that increasing the diversity of the leadership teams leads to improved financial performance. These findings demonstrate just how important it is to prioritize the components of your staff and how they work.
Final Thoughts
When it comes to diversity, diversity and inclusion are a pair that work best together. Take time to focus on your DEI initiatives, including diversity training, to allow your organization to thrive in today’s business world.
Focus on your DEI training and DEI programs to enjoy the full benefits of inclusion in the workplace. Respectful scheduling is an essential part of a positive work culture and fosters a sense of belonging where all employees feel accepted. For other DEI tips, sign up for a free trial of our Diversity Calendar. For highlights, check out our Diversity Calendar 2024, as well as our Interfaith Calendar 2024.
FAQs
What are the benefits of diversity in the workplace?
Workplace diversity offers several benefits. It leads to increased productivity, fostering better innovation and fresh ideas. This also enhances creativity and problem-solving, increasing the chances of finding workable solutions to challenges. Improved cultural awareness enables more effective global operations.
Why is diversity a good thing?
Diversity brings in fresh perspectives and ideas. Best of all, hiring a diverse group of people means your staff can learn from each other. Different ideas can lead to a positive and creative workspace. The real value of diversity lies in the positive work culture and sense of belonging it creates.