As workforce demographics continue to evolve, businesses are recognizing the importance of investing in diversity and inclusion as part of their overall talent management practices. In fact, diversity and inclusion in the workplace are becoming more of a business necessity as the industry grows, global markets emerge, and companies become more interactive with different cultures and customers.
The benefits have the potential to touch every area of the business. Among the advantages of diversity in the workplace are:
- Increased Innovation & Productivity
- Increased Creativity and Problem Solving:
- New Attitudes
- New Language Skills
- Conflict Resolution
- Mutual Respect among Employees
- Enhance Talent & Talent Retention
- Team synergy and Improved Communication Skills
- A Satisfied & Diverse Customer Base
- Global Understanding
- A Better Business Reputation
- Increased Learning Experiences, Growth, & Exposure
- Improved Workforce Quality
- Increased Flexibility
And much more…
The retail industry is built around diverse products, services, cultures, and customers as we look for ways to meet the complex needs of a world that expanding and shrinking at the same time. Businesses that fail to see the importance of diversity and inclusion might find themselves unable to attract and retain the kinds of customers, employees, and business partners in the years to come.
Seeing More
When we discuss diversity and inclusion, there are common pictures that come to our mind’s eye as we consider the possibilities. But as the word implies, diversity covers a wide spectrum of human dynamics. It’s not simply a singular issue such as race or gender, and sometimes that aspect of diversity gets minimized in our general conversations. To truly have a conversation about the spirit of inclusion we have to expand our minds and our perspectives to see a bigger picture.
We’ve all heard this before, and none of this should come as a surprise to any of us. But what are we doing to make a difference? Is it part of our discussions? Is it part of our training and development? Is it part of our action plans? Some companies have built tremendous programs that support a worldwide demographic, while others have fallen behind. Some have taken certain steps, while others may need more active involvement.
This week’s poll question: Do you feel that your company and your department are doing enough to encourage diversity and inclusion in the workplace?
Yes. I feel we have strong programs and practices that encourage diversity and inclusion.
Yes, but I feel that we can do more to encourage diversity and inclusion.
No. I feel we have taken some steps, but not close to what we should be taking.
No. I feel we have done very little to promote diversity and inclusion in the workplace.
It doesn’t matter. I feel that the subject is exaggerated and unnecessary.
To take this week’s poll, click here.
Call to Arms
This week’s discussion is looking for more than just opinions. The Loss Prevention Foundation’s Diversity Committee is looking for those that have a voice, but also those that want to help make a difference in our industry. Ideas and input can influence change, and a collective voice can ring loud and ring true. It’s not simply a matter of grand efforts—sometimes the biggest difference can come from simple and sincere gestures. We encourage you to get involved.
To learn more about the Loss Prevention Foundation’s Diversity Committee, please contact Paul Jones, LPC, Executive Director of Global Asset Protection for eBay at Diversity@LPportal.com
