The State of Workplace Diversity and Its Benefits

Workplace diversity is a representation of talent that varies in characteristics such as age, gender, ethnicity, cultural background, beliefs and identity, and physical and psychological abilities. 

In inclusive and equitable work environments, having diverse talent allows for a greater range of perspectives and expertise. Within a team setting, that diversity often translates to enhanced problem-solving and decision-making. 

Types of workplace diversity

As organizations look to build inclusive teams, they tend to do so through the lens of demographic diversity. From a compliance viewpoint, companies also follow specific legally defined demographics. In the U.S. and many other countries, legal protections apply to a wide range of minority groups. But in practice, diversity goals and research tend to focus on gender and ethnic diversity.

Here’s a list of the different types of diversity in the workplace:

• Cultural diversity
• Racial diversity
• Religious diversity
• Age diversity
• Sex / Gender diversity
• Sexual orientation
• Disability

Apart from protected characteristics, there are other important types of diversity, too, like:

• Socioeconomic background / Class diversity
• Education
• Life experiences
• Personality
• General worldview / opinions 

 Why is diversity important?

The business case for diversity has been thoroughly laid out for years. If every team member has the same backgrounds, attributes or perspectives, their team might not be as creative and successful as it could. Homogeneity deprives teams from healthy conflict that brings innovation and progress.

Here are 3 benefits to embracing diversity in the workplace. 

Diverse Teams Boost Creativity and Innovation 

Diversity has been shown to boost creativity, and it’s no secret that companies are always looking for the next big thing. In my experience, that dynamite idea usually comes from thinking outside-the-box. When people come from different backgrounds, have a variety of life experiences, and see the world in unique ways, multiple perspectives are brought to the table. 

Workplace Diversity Creates Greater Opportunities for Professional Growth

Companies that embrace ideas and practices from different perspectives create an inclusive culture where the employees become ambassadors for the company. Internal company advocacy attracts talented, ambitious, and diverse professionals.

Better Decision-Making

Teams outperform individuals when making decisions and that improves as diversity increases. Our hardwired biases are mitigated by voices from diverse teams. Diversity in decision-making equates to profitability in the global economy as evidenced by a 70% likelihood of capturing new markets by companies with a diverse workforce. Companies with diverse teams are better able to meet the needs of a diverse customer base. 

Culturally diverse voices working together on a team are overall more efficient and successful. It creates a safe place for employees and it positively highlights a company’s reputation.

Resorces: 
https://www.forbes.com/sites/ashleystahl/2021/12/17/3-benefits-of-diversity-in-the-workplace/?sh=7b1b97c822ed
https://resources.workable.com/hr-terms/the-types-of-diversity
https://www.predictiveindex.com/blog/workplace-diversity/