Weaving The Diversity And Inclusion Fabric

Truly Exceptional Organisations Have One Element in Common: a Hands-on Diversity and Inclusion Cultural Dna Embedded in Their Processes and Value System
 

- Ritu Khandelia

In the recent years, we have witnessed more multinationals and local organisations jumping on the diversity bandwagon, to embrace religious, gender, generational, and other types of diversity. However, few recognise that diversity without inclusion is a story of missed opportunities. While diversity embraces a talent mix, inclusion is the pivot that binds the mix together — to attract diverse talent, encourage their participation, foster innovation, and fuel business growth.

It is increasingly evident that truly exceptional organisations, measured by business, financial and talent outcomes, have one element in common: a hands-on diversity and inclusion cultural DNA embedded in their processes and value system.

Research further affirms that inclusive teams outperform their peers. Companies with inclusive talent practices in recruitment, promotion, development, leadership, and team management generate up to 30 percent higher revenue per employee and greater profitability than their competitors. Without a strong culture of inclusion and flexibility, the teamcentric model comprising just diverse individuals may not perform well.   

REALITY BITES — SENIOR LEADERS ARE STRUGGLING TO GRASP INCLUSION

A recent Russell Reynolds Associates Diversity Pulse survey with over 217 senior executives shows that many companies understand diversity, but struggle to grasp inclusion in concrete terms. Nearly half of the executives (47 percent) state that their organisations have a clear, holistic definition for diversity, while less than a quarter (24 percent) are aware of a definition for inclusion. As per our survey, we found that most senior executives struggle to define, measure and strategise for an inclusive culture, and there is much work to be done in creating truly inclusive organisations.