As an employer or leader within the organisation, it is important to encourage an inclusive and diverse workplace. A 2015 report by McKinsey states that racially and ethnically diverse companies outperform industry norms by 35%. Cultural Perspectives believe promoting workplace diversity and inclusion leads to a series of benefits.

Promoting an inclusive and diverse workplace can establish new opportunities internally within the staff and externally within the market. According to the 2016 ABS Census, 27.6% of New South Wales’ population were born overseas – this is over 2 million people in one state. Additionally, at least 25% of people in NSW speak a language other than English at home. Therefore, considering your staff capacity is crucial and hiring culturally diverse individuals may be something worth considering as a starting point.

The promotion of an inclusive workplace, with diversity among staff and targeting the right market can facilitate the following:

Encouraging workforce participation, greater company retention rates and ultimately productivity among staff:
Having a diverse workplace means, every employee feels comfortable, valued and welcome to come to work. This helps with overall attendance and long-term retention rates.
As an employer, you can build connections with customers and clients:
You will be able to build a better rapport with your customers and clients (no matter what cultural background they are from), thanks to your consistent efforts and culturally sensitive communication skills.
Targeting the best-fit employee:
Recruiting culturally diverse individuals will ultimately lead to a diverse workplace. You are encouraging innovation within your organisation as individuals are able to bring forward different perspectives, knowledge and skill sets.

If you feel that your business or organisation could do more in this space, we’re keen to help you achieve greater diversity and inclusion and maximize these benefits, contact us here. Please share your thoughts in the comments below.