BUS 200: Workplace Diversity

A majority of U.S. workers say focusing on DEI at work is a good thing, but relatively small shares place great importance on diversity in their own workplace.

When employers foster a culture of diversity — or a capacity to appreciate and value individual differences — they benefit from varied perspectives on how to confront business challenges and achieve success. The term diversity refers to the infinite range of individuals' unique attributes and experiences such as ethnicity, gender, age and disability. Since disability is a natural part of diversity, businesses can benefit by taking steps to ensure people with disabilities are represented in their workforce.

Diversity, equity, and inclusion, or DEI, in the workplace refers to policies and procedures that encourage representation and participation of people of different genders, races, ethnicities, religions, ages, sexual orientations, disabilities, and classes. However, it’s not enough to simply hire a diverse workforce. Rather, it’s also important that all employees have equitable access to salary and benefits, resources, and advancement opportunities, and to have a voice within their teams and organizations at large. The great thing about creating diverse, equitable, and inclusive work cultures and environments is that they are mutually beneficial to both employees and employers.