DEI & Creating a Culture of Inclusion

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) have continued to become increasingly important in the workplace in recent years. Research has shown that organizations that prioritize DEI are more likely to attract and retain diverse talent, have improved morale and productivity, and drive innovation and growth.

To promote DEI in the workplace, it’s important to start with a clear understanding of what it means:

Diversity refers to the different characteristics and experiences that make individuals unique, such as race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, and ability.
Equity means ensuring that everyone has an equal opportunity to succeed, regardless of their background.
Inclusion is about creating a culture where all employees feel valued, respected, and heard.

Establishing clear policies and practices, including a system in place to address and prevent discrimination, bias, and harassment, are an effective way to promote DEI within an organization. This can be achieved through creation of employee resource groups, mentorship programs, and regular training and education on topics related to DEI, and includes everything from recruitment and hiring to promotions and performance evaluations.

Implementing DEI throughout an organization creates an environment where everyone feels welcome and included, regardless of their background, enables employers to benefit from increased employee satisfaction, a diverse set of perspectives and ideas, and better problems solving and decision making. 

One way to promote DEI in the workplace is through employee benefits. For example, offering benefits such as parental leave and flexible work arrangements can help to support employees from diverse backgrounds and with diverse caregiving responsibilities. Offering health insurance and other benefits that cover a wide range of medical needs can help to ensure that all employees have access to the care they need. Offering a benefit package that is inclusive of all kinds of partners can also be a significant step in promoting DEI within the workplace.

Speak to a Benefit Strategies advisor by calling (780) 437-5070 to learn more about practices and policies you can implement coupled with a customized and inclusive employee benefit plan to boost the morale and culture of your business.