Companies looking to increase diversity and inclusion must first look inward. Understanding current diversity issues is the first place to start. Below, we’ll explore the most common diversity-related problems in the workplaces as well how to solve diversity issues in the place. Here’s what you need to know:
Current Diversity Issues
If you’re creating a diversity and inclusion program, and want to start by looking at your organization’s related issues, that’s great! Unfortunately, many organizations have no idea where to start. To help, we’ll discover 5 significant diversity issues in the workplace. Explore these and reflect on whether these are areas for improvement at your company.
- Communication Issues
In just about every workplace, communication issues can be common, ranging insensitive to downright offensive. Be sure to let all employees know the point persons they can address if they have concerns or questions.
In a diverse workplace, English might be not be the first language of an employee. In that case, communication can be an even bigger barrier to productivity, inclusion, and general morale. Help alleviate any stigma or marginalization that comes with lack of understanding due to language barriers.
- Sexual Harassment
Statistics reveal about 60 percent of women have experienced unwanted advances or sexual harassment at work. Even top companies like Uber have had their fair share of bad diversity and inclusion press from this very issue.
Overall, this is an indication that businesses have a long way to go in their diversity and inclusion efforts. Wondering how you can solve this diversity issue in the workplace? We suggest creating open lines of communication between employees and leadership teams to encourage people to speak out against – and report – harassment.
- Unconscious Bias
The problem with unconscious bias is that it often flies under the radar. Employees are often oblivious that it’s a factor (hence the name — unconscious). For example, hiring managers might discriminate against candidates based on demographic factors.
Fortunately, this is something your company can directly address with D&I unconscious bias training. Remember, lack of training only results in bad PR, employee turnover, recruiting difficulties, and lawsuits. Address these issues with unconscious bias online training.
- Diversity Without Inclusion
The words diversity and inclusion go hand in hand, and there’s a reason why. But too many organizations work hard to increase their diversity, but they fail miserably to make each of their employees feel included and belonging, and as if they can be their authentic selves in the workplace.
Fostering diversity without inclusion can potentially do more harm than good. It’s essential to attract diversity, and then foster awareness and respect of those differences. Are you doing enough on this front? A quick, budget-friendly solution is online inclusion and diversity training.
- Generational Differences
Age isn’t always just a number — especially in the workplace. Different generations have diverse working styles, and age diversity presents its own unique issues in the workplace. You’ll encounter communication differences, varying work speeds, and even distinct definitions of success depending on the person. Examining this gap and bridging generational diversity can be very rewarding.
Final thoughts
These current diversity issues won’t go away overnight. However, there are ways you can address these problems and seek solutions by ramping up your diversity and inclusion program. Enhancing a diversity and inclusion program is one of the best ways that you can improve your company’s culture and establish a sense of belonging for everyone you’ve hired. Stay up to date with our entire Diversity and Inclusion Calendar 2022
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