Why is diversity important at work?
We all have differences in who we are and that is what makes us all unique and amazing! Studies have shown that working together with different genders, races and ethnicities increase a business’s productivity, ultimately increasing revenue. Here are a few reasons why!
- Diversity makes us smarter! – Diversity enhances creativity which encourages new ideas on how to do things more efficiently. This means that the work to be done each day can be completed quicker and with less mistakes. Different backgrounds, culture, education and life experiences contribute to different ways of thinking.
- Diversity makes us happier! – According to a survey recently conducted, 58% of U.S. workers would take a pay cut to accept a job that makes them happier (The Olson Group, 2019). Employees want to feel safe and accepted at their place of work. When this is achieved, they can feel happier and focus better at their work tasks.
- Diversity makes us healthier! – Since a diverse workplace is a happy place, this can better our health. When you are happier you are less stressed or sad. When a person is stressed and sad the body releases Cortisol and that can make you feel exhausted and sluggish. If your environment is positive you feel happy, and your body releases Dopamine and Serotonin which makes you more energized. You are more likely to eat better, get more fresh air, and more exercise when you have energy!
Some stats
- Companies that were highest in reporting racial diversity brought in nearly 15 times more sales revenue on average then companies that reported lower levels of racial diversity (Science Daily, 2009)
- If 10% more employees feel included a company will increase work attendance by almost one day per year per employee (Deloitte, 2013)
- 67% of job seekers consider workplace diversity an important factor when considering employment opportunities (Glassdoor, 2014)
“Strength lies in differences, not in similarities” – Stephen R. Covey
Here is a worksheet you can complete at home!