In our VUCA world building a more diverse and inclusive workforce is a strategic imperative of most organisations across the APAC region.

Let’s quickly look at the difference between diversity and inclusion and why are they important?

Diversity is the range of human differences, including but not limited to race, ethnicity, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, social class, physical ability or attributes, religious or ethical values system, national origin, and political beliefs.

Diversity within an organisation gives the organisation access to a greater range of talent, not just the talent that belongs to a particular world-view or ethnicity or some other restricting definition.

By having a diverse workforce and therefore many different types of thinking you create an organisation that produces a far greater variety of ideas and collaborates more often than you would find at a less diverse workplace.

Inclusion is the behaviours that welcome and embrace diversity.

If you are a great leader for inclusion, you have figured out how to embrace and galvanize diversity of voices and identities.

Inclusion within an organisation ensures people feel valued for what they bring to the organisation and that everyone has the same access to opportunities.

People want to be part of a workplace that aligns to their values, where they feel connected to its goals and feel they can contribute and have a say in decision-making while bringing their whole selves to work.

A diverse workforce brings a unique set of experiences and perspectives which means organisations should use inclusion as a tool to collaborate with diverse employees and fully realise their talents.

Unique experiences and perspectives are essential for developing new ideas and innovation.

Research shows that diversity and inclusion within the workplace will also result in …

• increased productivity, morale and commitment
• improved team effectiveness and co-operation
• increased openness to change and enhances the effectiveness of complex organisations.

Diversity AND inclusion are important and will transform your workplace!