Read on for a better understanding of how you can facilitate a more inclusive workplace culture and avoid common pitfalls along the way. Inspired by insights from Dr Jonathan Ashong-Lamptey on The Element of Inclusion podcast.
Written by: Josephine Palermo
Josephine Palermo is a leading advocate for gender equality and diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in the workplace. With a PhD in Organisational Psychology and extensive publications on the psychology of gender, change management, and organisational development, she brings a deep understanding of organisational dynamics to her work.
Table of Contents
Introduction: The Need for an Inclusive Workplace Culture
Inclusivity impacts everything from employee satisfaction to organisational performance. Dr Jonathan Ashong-Lamptey, a leading voice in inclusion in the UK, outlines seven common mistakes organisations often make on their journey towards creating truly inclusive environments. Avoiding these missteps, while adopting a systematic and evidence-based approach, can help organisations build a genuinely inclusive culture.
The Need For An Inclusive Workplace Culture
Inclusivity in the workplace impacts everything from employee satisfaction to organisational performance. Dr Jonathan Ashong-Lamptey, a leading voice in inclusion in the UK, recently outlined seven common mistakes organisations often make when creating authentically inclusive environments.
Avoiding these missteps, while adopting a systematic and evidence-based approach, is how genuinely inclusive culture is created, setting your organisation apart from other employers.
Understanding The 7 Most Common Mistakes to Avoid
1. Generic Business Cases For Workplace Diversity
Articulating a specific business case that resonates with your organisation’s unique goals and context inspires meaningful change. Tailored messaging has the power to create a stronger sense of purpose and commitment to diversity and inclusion goals.
2. Focusing On Social Media Likes Over Real Impact
Initiatives aimed at profile raising on social media can create the appearance of inclusivity without delivering true value. Instead focus on addressing internal challenges over the short lived dopamine hit of external validation. Prioritising real progress over ‘optics’ builds credibility and authenticates DEI efforts.
3. Expecting A Single Intervention To ‘Fix’ Inclusion
Some organisations look to a single initiative or training workshop as a ‘quick fix’ to solve DEI issues. But events alone aren’t enough to drive real change.
The best approach involves a strategic approach to DEI that aligns with an organisation’s business goals and reflects an ongoing commitment to creating and maintaining inclusive workplace culture.
4. Underestimating The Need For Evidence-Based Strategies
Making decisions based on common sense or intuition can lead to biased and unproven outcomes. Effective DEI strategies should be grounded in data and evidence. Utilise research-based insights and expert guidance to create informed policies that address your organisation’s unique needs and complexities.
5. Trying To Address Diversity Without Intersectionality
Diversity issues are complex and focusing on one aspect at a time, such as gender diversity alone, overlooks intersectionality and the nuanced challenges that diverse individuals face. Adopting a holistic approach that considers multiple facets of diversity allows employers to create inclusive solutions that incorporate various lived experiences and individual identities.
6. Taking A One-Size-Fits-All Approach
There is no universal ‘blueprint’ for inclusion. What works for one organisation will not completely suit another. DEI strategies must be tailored to a count for context, industry, and each unique workforce. Personalised plans are more effective and lead to meaningful, long-term change.
7. Focusing On Senior Leaders
Creating an inclusive culture requires senior leaders to genuinely and enthusiastically champion DEI initiatives. Their support lends credibility and drives accountability, setting the tone for the rest of the organisation. But focusing solely on their experience neglects the importance of inclusion at every level. DEI initiatives should engage employees across all departments and levels, building a culture of inclusion from the ground up and ensuring that every team member feels included.
At Corporate Diversity Pathways, we understand that creating an inclusive culture in the workplace can be complex. Whether you’re looking for guidance on building diverse teams, promoting inclusive leadership, or implementing effective policies, our team of experts is here to support you. Don’t wait—ask your questions today, and let’s work together to cultivate a more inclusive workplace!
Moving Forward: Benchmark With Relevant, Measurable Outcomes
It’s possible for DEI activities to sound good in theory but not deliver the measurable results needed for ongoing buy-in.
‘Flags, food, and fun’ events are notorious for this, often resulting in a short term feel-good boost, but with minimal long-term impact. Whereas actionable goals can produce measurable results such as reducing turnover among underrepresented groups, or increasing representation in leadership – and measurable outcomes are the hallmark of genuine progress.
Our Advice: Introduce An Evidence-Based DEI Strategy
Evidence-based practices create a solid foundation for sustainable, impactful inclusion. Establishing a strategic, systematic approach to DEI allows organisations to make continuous improvements.
Regularly reviewing and refining inclusion efforts based on data and feedback, ensures they remain effective and relevant.
Creating an inclusive culture is a continuous, organisation-wide effort that requires avoiding common pitfalls and focusing on sustainable, evidence-based strategies. The road to inclusivity is a journey that requires the improvement of diversity metrics, and the creation of workplaces where everyone feels valued and empowered to thrive..
Contact us today to discuss a tailored DEI strategy for your organisation.
Our evidence-based solutions are designed to transform your company culture, enhance team collaboration, and drive sustainable success.
Take the first step towards a more inclusive future. Connect with us today! Call us at +61 404 888 335 or email us at hello@corporatediversitypathways.com to get your questions answered and start making a difference in your organisation!
