Developing a more inclusive workplace is important to attract top talent and offer an innovative environment. When an organization offers an inclusive work environment, employees sense a feeling of fairness and collaboration. It assists their mental and physical well-being and allows them to embrace their potential to the fullest. An inclusive workforce works more effectively, compelled to be a long-term employee and eventually improve the business. So, what can you do to offer an inclusive workplace to the employees?

An organization can rely on HRtech to create an inclusive workplace. Every employee needs to know that their existence matters to the organization as well as to others existing in the organization. Workplaces are becoming increasingly diverse, yet not everyone feels fully integrated due to their discrimination or subtle biases. 

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Job seekers are prioritizing to find organizations that value inclusion. Millennials, in particular look for a workplace that provides an inclusive environment. This is because they do not want to be counted as a colleague who is marginalized. As per McKinsey survey, it was found that 39% of respondents skip the job offers owing to the lack of inclusivity in the workplace.

If management fully grasps the value of an inclusive environment and possesses the requisite interpersonal skills, it can embrace this concept and actively work to create an inclusive culture. HR can be pivotal in educating management on this topic and demonstrating practical strategies for fostering an inclusive workplace. An organization may follow the following measures to offer a more inclusive workplace:

HR Tech Solution Assisting in Forming an Inclusive Workplace

One way to acknowledge and appreciate the efforts of all employees is to develop a culture where employees praise each other on a mutually shared social network. Every time an employee is appreciated for their contributions, they are encouraged to add more value to the organization. Not only does this boost employee morale, but it also encourages them to work efficiently. A job is well done when an employee’s efforts are appreciated.   

What Does an Inclusive Workplace Look Like?

An inclusive workplace atmosphere lets employees feel that they are heard, safe, respected, and accepted. Every employee senses that they are welcomed and supported, despite various characteristics of age, gender, ethnicity, religion, culture, physical ability, and sexual orientation. Employees believe their environment motivates them to thrive and perform best.

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Employees who feel welcomed and valued are likelier to share their thoughts and concerns openly, without fear of judgment or isolation. They trust that their perspectives will be heard and respected. Formal policies alone cannot create an inclusive workplace. Inclusive leadership is characterized by managers who actively listen to their team members, advocate for their needs, and treat everyone fairly. These managers recognize the unique contributions of each individual and avoid favoritism, fostering a non-discriminatory environment.

Following are inclusive environment examples of simple behaviors of managers:

• Showing genuine concerns

Make genuine interest in others by making eye contact and initiating basic conversations. Interacting with people who may seem different from you can teach you a lot.

• Ask for assistance

Different viewpoints can provide fresh perspectives on problem-solving. Seeking input or assistance from others demonstrates your trust in their abilities and makes them feel valued as contributors.

• Seek feedback

 Keep everyone informed and involved in important matters. Asking for opinions and input shows that their voices are heard and respected.

• Recognize achievements

Employees appreciate ongoing recognition, not just annual performance reviews. Regularly highlighting their contributions and how they benefit the organization helps them feel supported and valued.

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Difference between diversity and inclusion

Corporate policies may combine diversity and inclusion. However, these are two different topics. Diversity is the employee count or representation within the organization and about putting people from different backgrounds together. On the other hand, inclusion is about how an employee feels at work and taking actions deliberately to embrace differences in an accepting and respectful environment. The diverse people group not only needs to be represented but also to be heard. 

How will HRtech assist in forming an inclusive workplace?

From talent acquisition to onboarding, from employee performance to offboarding, becoming an inclusive workplace requires a new thought. An overall understanding of how you hire and manage top talent. Most managers now use technology to reduce unconscious bias and overcome the diversity gap. For example, HireVue helps employees experience a fair interview process, allowing candidates to react to the same questions, receive the same amount of feedback, and play the same games. With the ethically-designed algorithm, the candidate’s responses are calculated against specific criteria every time. 

#1. Bias mitigation in hiring

HRtech can anonymize resumes and remove identified information that could lead to inevitable biases. AI algorithms may evaluate candidates based on their qualifications and skills and reduce the impact of subjective judgments.

#2. Diverse talent acquisition

HRtech can identify candidates from various backgrounds through targeted sourcing and outreach programs. Tracking diversity metrics helps organizations identify the gaps and implement corrective actions.

#3. Inclusive learning and development

HRtech can help you tailor training programs to individual employee needs, ensuring everyone gets equal growth opportunities. Online courses can assist employees in understanding different cultures and perspectives. 

#4. Employee engagement and Well-being 

Anonymous feedback is HRtech’s superpower. These tools help employees share suggestions or concerns without any fear of reprisal. HRTech can assist in managing employee performance and engagement and in offering a space for employees to connect and support each other. 

#5. Data-driven decision making

HRtech provides data-driven insights into workforce demographics, turnover rates, and employee satisfaction, enabling organizations to make informed decisions about their inclusion initiatives. 

#6.  Flexible work arrangements

HR information systems can manage flexible remote work, work arrangements, flexible hours, and accommodating the needs of diverse employees.

#7. Fair compensation and benefits

HRtech can help the organization ensure fair and equitable compensation, regardless of race, gender, or other factors. 

How can HRtech impact the inclusion environment?

HRtech is the emerging voice of the employee (VoE) software solutions that add value. Voice of the Employee (VoE) software can significantly enhance your diversity and inclusion efforts. These platforms collect and analyze employee feedback from various sources, including direct interactions, online discussions, and inferred data.

VoE platforms can be integrated with existing systems to capture employee sentiment on various topics, such as diversity and inclusion initiatives. For instance, if employees discuss a lack of D&I on your company’s communication platform, VoE can identify and analyze these conversations. When combined with employee surveys, VoE provides HR leaders with deeper insights into the effectiveness of their D&I programs. While technology plays a crucial role, achieving a competitive advantage through diversity and inclusion requires more than just tools. Gaining company-wide buy-in from the beginning is essential, and this involves careful planning and analysis. Silver Cloud HR can offer invaluable guidance in this area.

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