How to Create An Inclusive Work Environment

How is diversity reflected in your workplace? For most, it reflects inclusiveness of cultures, orientations and more. Making a conscious effort to embrace inclusiveness and create a workplace in which people of all backgrounds feel safe and welcomed is not only good for business, but it’s also the law. In celebration of LGBT Pride Month, here are four tips to help you create an inclusive work environment.

How to Create An Inclusive Work Environment

How is diversity reflected in your workplace? For most, it reflects inclusiveness of cultures, orientations and more. Making a conscious effort to embrace inclusiveness and create a workplace in which people of all backgrounds feel safe and welcomed is not only good for business, but it’s also the law.

In celebration of LGBT Pride Month, here are four tips to help you create an inclusive work environment.

1. Reflect your passion for an inclusive work environment in your core/company values.

Most companies have a minimum of three-four core values. Why not dedicate one of them to inclusiveness? This will not only impress potential employees, but it will also serve as a great, engaging exercise for your current employees. Take it a step further by creating a contest for employees who want to submit new ideas for the new/revised core value. Ensure that the prize is something special.

2. Create an internal diversity & inclusion team

Before you assemble the team, be sure that you are clear on what the goal of the team is. If you need additional help, the Department of Labor (DOL) has helpful resources available. View the resources here.

3. Hire an HR professional/consultant that has experience in diversity & inclusion

If you desire to create inclusion initiatives but don’t have the time to implement, consider hiring a HR professional or consultant. Ideally, this professional will have past experience in diversity and inclusion from strategy to execution.

4. Host a diversity/inclusion workshop for your employees

Don’t have the budget to hire a full-time HR professional or consultant? Consider hiring one for a project-based initiative for your team. This can vary by topic and format, but the goal should be leave your employees with more awareness of inclusion.

By Joshlyn Ross, Contributor

Published: June 16, 2017 | Updated: May 16, 2018

About the Author:

Joshlyn Ross

Contributor Joshlyn Ross is a passionate digital marketing & communications professional with 7+ years of experience. She specializes in creating/implementing targeted online marketing and communications plans that build strong brand awareness and position companies as thought leaders in competitive markets.