Creating a truly inclusive workplace culture can be easier said than done.

It requires a focused effort that goes beyond simply hiring a diverse workforce. It requires an intentional approach to create an environment where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered to contribute their unique perspectives.

In this post, we'll outline a step-by-step guide to building a truly inclusive workplace culture that goes beyond diversity, incorporating inclusion as a key component.

Here are 6 steps you can take today to begin creating a culture of inclusion. 

Step 1: Define Inclusion

The first step in building an inclusive workplace culture is to define what "inclusion" means for your organisation. Inclusion is not just about having a diverse workforce; it's about creating a workplace where everyone feels valued, respected, and able to bring their whole selves to work. This means considering factors such as communication, accessibility, and workplace policies.

Step 2: Assess Your Current Culture

Next, assess your current workplace culture. Conduct an anonymous survey or hold focus groups to gather feedback from your employees. This will help you to identify areas where your organization may be falling short in terms of inclusivity. Some key questions to ask include:

• How comfortable do you feel expressing your ideas and opinions in meetings?
• Do you feel that you have access to the same opportunities as your peers?
• Have you witnessed any incidents of bias or discrimination in the workplace?

Step 3: Develop a Plan

Using the feedback from your survey or focus groups, develop a plan to address any issues with your current culture. This plan should include specific, actionable steps to promote inclusivity. For example, if your survey indicates that employees feel uncomfortable expressing their ideas in meetings, you might introduce more structured meeting agendas or create small group sessions where everyone has an opportunity to speak.

Step 4: Communicate the Plan

Once you've developed a plan, it's important to communicate it to your employees. Make sure everyone understands the steps being taken to promote inclusivity and the rationale behind those steps. Encourage employees to provide ongoing feedback to help refine the plan.

Step 5: Train Your Managers

Your managers play a critical role in promoting an inclusive workplace culture. Make sure they understand the importance of diversity and inclusion and provide them with the tools they need to support their teams. This might include training on unconscious bias, conflict resolution, and effective communication.

Step 6: Monitor Progress

Finally, monitor progress and make adjustments as needed. Review your plan periodically and assess whether it's achieving its intended goals. Make changes as necessary to keep your organisation on track toward building a truly inclusive workplace culture.

In conclusion, building a truly inclusive workplace culture requires a concerted effort that goes beyond just hiring a diverse workforce.

It requires a focus on creating an environment where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered to contribute their unique perspectives.

By following this step-by-step guide, you can create a workplace culture that fosters inclusivity and benefits everyone in your organisation. 

Looking to take your company's inclusion efforts from intention to impact? 

Contact one of our team today to discuss a partnership that aligns with your company's goals and vision.