Inclusion in the Workplace Matters:
Why Fostering a Culture of Community and Belonging Creates Stronger Global Connections
I’ve had the opportunity to travel to many cities on five continents, meeting people from all walks of life, socioeconomic backgrounds, and worldviews. My travels have taught me many things, but one stands out most: creating an inclusive workplace where people feel supported creates stronger ties to their teams, their peers, and the company.
From different backgrounds and cultures to varied perspectives and experiences, the modern workplace is a vibrant tapestry of individuals. But diversity alone isn’t enough. The true power lies in fostering an inclusive culture that values and leverages this diversity, creating a genuine sense of community and belonging for everyone.
From nonprofits and NGOs to large corporations, when organizations prioritize inclusion, they unlock a few benefits:
Enhanced Creativity and Innovation: When you have diverse perspectives and viewpoints, you are likely to see more creative solutions and innovative ideas.
Improved Employee Engagement: When employees feel valued and seen, they are more motivated and committed to their team and the work they’re doing. This also helps to improve psychological safety and could decrease attrition.
Better Decision-Making: Inclusive work environments promote diverse perspectives, leading to more comprehensive and effective decisions.
Attracting and Retaining Top Talent: We live in a global workplace and brilliant talent is everywhere. For companies to attract these folks, they must be committed to creating an inclusive work culture in an effort to keep employees longer.
An inclusive workplace isn’t just the right thing to do — it’s a strategic advantage. When companies consistently invest in creating a culture of inclusion, they pave the way for sustainable success. Teams are more engaged, there are better business outcomes, and an organization can have a more positive global reputation that attracts top talent.
