The importance of an inclusive workforce

Making a conscious effort to be inclusive as a company is more than reflecting the world we live in, it is now a priority for jobseekers. Candidates from diverse backgrounds will prioritise inclusive employers when they are making their career choices. In a recent survey, 75% of LGBTQ+ employees said it is important that they work at a company where they can feel comfortable bringing their full self to work.  

Here, we cover the importance of an inclusive workforce and practical steps to take to foster an inclusive company culture:  

CONSIDERING CANDIDATE PREFERENCES  

Studies have shown that jobseekers actively seek inclusive employers, with 47% of millennial job seekers looking for diversity and inclusion initiatives when sizing up their potential employers. (Deloitte). Candidates value equality, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) and are more likely to choose companies that demonstrate a commitment to these values. Often, they are signs that a company cares about wellbeing and creating a kind environment where everyone can be their true selves at work.  

 ARE YOU AN INCLUSIVE EMPLOYER? 

Candidates might look for specific indicators of an employer supporting EDI during the hiring process, and you may have even had questions regarding these in recent interviews. The indicators may include diverse representation in leadership positions, diversity and inclusion statements and policies, inclusive language in job postings, regular training programmes, and employee resource groups focused on underrepresented communities.  

At Huntress, we are proud to offer our clients consultative guidance on an EDI conscious recruitment process. This includes providing inclusive language in job postings and focuses on attracting a more diverse pool of candidates, ensuring your hires are the right people for you, irrespective of their backgrounds. 

INVESTING IN YOUR EDI JOURNEY  

Companies should invest in EDI initiatives to create a happy environment. 41% of organisations use EDI programmes to improve employee retention. This includes allocating resources for diversity training programmes or creating an internal focus group who can voice improvements your company could make, plan inclusive internal celebrations, and get involved in future milestones the company wants to achieve.  

Not only can this impact employee retention, but LinkedIn reported 37% of LGBTQ professionals  who have not felt a sense of belonging has led to them not wanting to attend workplace events, which has a direct impact on creating a positive and safe environment.  

BE TRANSPARENT WITH YOUR STANCE ON EDI  

Being transparent is crucial during the hiring process. Candidates looking for employers that prioritise EDI will be less likely to apply for roles with employers they feel might not be as inclusive. 

You should communicate your commitment to inclusion and diversity, both internally and externally. This can be achieved through social media, on your company website, specific reporting, or even your policies and practices. For candidates from diverse backgrounds, these are key indicators that you care. It shows you provide a safe working environment and space where they will be respected. Naturally, this can also impact the longevity and growth within a business. 

Comparatively, your competitors and other businesses looking to hire might already have this in place and will therefore have a wider pool of candidates to choose from, beating you to the best talent.  

THE BENEFITS OF AN INCLUSIVE CULTURE 

 Having an inclusive culture can improve employee engagement, creativity, and increase the retention rate. All valuable reasons why you could be the next employer of choice! 

 Here are some stats to back this up: 

• Companies that offered the most inclusive working environment for disabled employees achieved an average of 28% higher revenue  
• 69% of millennials and Gen Z workers are more likely to stay five or more years with a company that has a diverse workforce. 
• Neurodiverse conditions such as ADHD and dyslexia can be beneficial for creative thinking 
• Diverse teams are 70% more likely to capture new markets.  
• 81% of employees who believe they work in an inclusive culture say they are also happy in their jobs.  

If you would like more information on how we can support you along your EDI journey , please contact our teams.