The key difference between diversity and inclusion is the traits and characteristics that make people unique. Creating an inclusive culture is beneficial for employee engagement, productivity, and diversity efforts.

FREMONT, CA: Inclusion and diversity refer to a group of people working together and the environment in which they can do so. Inclusion and diversity efforts improve workplace safety, happiness and productivity.

People differ in countless ways, but most of us define diversity in terms of a handful of social constructs, such as gender, race, age, and so on.

The key to inclusion is understanding and respect. Creating an inclusive work environment where everyone feels respected requires hearing and considering everyone's voices and opinions. Work environments where everyone feels accepted and is part of the decision-making process are incredibly challenging and need constant support.

Although inclusion and diversity may not be the same, neither is possible without creating a culture that values other points of view. A narrow-minded work environment will fail to support any pretense of inclusion or diversity. Leadership must openly recognize the value of other viewpoints.

The importance of inclusion increases as an organization grows more diverse. Inclusive efforts must strongly emphasize making every employee feel appreciated and trusted regardless of their background.

Workplace Diversity and Inclusion Benefits

Diversity in the workplace offers several substantial advantages, besides being an obvious social, political, ethical, and moral obligation, especially given how consumers and employees view a company.

Revenue, consumer reach, staff recruitment, and employee retention can all benefit from a focus on diversity and inclusion.

Companies with executive teams that are more diverse in terms of race and gender are each 36 percent more likely to surpass their competitors in terms of profitability.

A 2018 study revealed that financially successful corporations had diverse boards. According to a BCG study, there is a large, positive correlation between business innovation and diversity.

Studies show that 76 percent of workers and potential employees value workplace diversity, which impacts hiring and retention.

Diverse businesses have a 70 percent higher chance of snagging a new market segment.

Strong allies at work are reported to make employees 86 percent more likely to recommend their employer and 53 percent less likely to consider quitting. Additionally, they are more likely to enjoy their work and experience fewer burnouts.