When you are looking for a job, at some point you have seen the words “diversity and inclusion”. It seems to be the newest label for every company and business around. However, how does a company truly know if they are diverse and inclusive regarding both their current and future employees? Is it because every once in a while, they put a person of color in a high place of power, but they don’t let them fully express what’s on their mind? Or is it because at the height of the Black Lives Matter movement, they put a black square to show their “support” for their black employees? In short, the answer is no. Diversity and inclusivity surpasses merely following a trend or posting a demographic chart that lays out how many people of color are working for a company. It is about creating a welcoming environment for people from all walks of life. When a company is diverse, they should not only want people of different shades but people who have different thoughts and ideas. The best work environment is one where coworkers are challenging not only each other but the company to be better as a whole.
Something most companies struggle with when trying to be inclusive is drawing the line between being genuine and performative. This very fine line, requires steps that can be taken to make sure that the actions of the company are genuine. In honor of Black History Month, what better time for The Pocketbook Agency to give advice on how to be an inclusive work environment. As a new intern who is a person of color at The Pocketbook Agency, I have already seen the amount of care and compassion the company has for its employees. Not only because I was chosen as an intern but because they have made an effort to make their employees feel wanted and cared for. Below I have listed some tips on how you can make your company both diverse and inclusive. Not just for a “look” but so you can create a strong connection with your employees and co-workers.
Give your employees a voice.
It is extremely common, not only in the workplace but in life for people to not speak up for themselves. Make it easier on your employees and provide a space and opportunity to voice their concerns on the work environment or an issue in the company. This can range from having a monthly check-in meeting or a complaint box. Create some form of an outlet so your employees feel like they have a voice.
Be open-minded.
When there is a new project coming up and you need to assign someone to take on the lead role, do not choose the same person repeatedly. Use this as an opportunity to use another person’s experience and background to enhance the creativity and authenticity of the task at hand.
Educate your company.
As cliché as it sounds, it is 2021 and there is no reason why not only the leaders in your company but lower-level employees shouldn’t be up to date with current events. Create workshops or diversity and inclusion events that are mandatory for your employees to attend. Be the change you want to see!
Celebrate uniqueness.
Hopefully, you have made the effort to hire a diverse group of employees. Now it’s time to celebrate them. What better way to make a person feel special than to celebrate their history and cultural upbringing. This isn’t limited to Black History Month! Make every month or every couple of months an opportunity to celebrate the culture and history of those who work for your company. They will feel loved and appreciated and you get to learn more about those around you!