Organisations must stop shying away from the inevitable, and instead take active steps towards creating a sustainable, Inclusive Culture, a new book on Employee Experience insists.
For modern businesses, diversity and inclusion are much more than just ‘tick box’ exercises. Organisations without adequate inclusivity and diversity policies can no longer hide, and must face the uncomfortable truth that their policies lack effectiveness.
In her new book Closing the Gap, diversity and inclusion expert Teresa Boughey outlines why society is no longer accepting rhetoric and promises in the place of solid action to build an environment that is both motivating and inspiring not only for employees, but customers too, who all want to feel proud to be associated with the organisation.
Furthermore, every single individual in the workforce should be treated with equal amounts of respect, feel genuinely supported by their managers and should never need to hide who they really are.
Closing the Gap provides business leaders, directors, and HR professionals with clear, practical guidance both for those taking their first steps and those already on their journey; presenting an opportunity to ‘evaluate progress’ and embed inclusive practices into all future strategies. Teresa utilises her “tribe5 Diversity & Inclusion” methodology to provide practical advice to any organisation seeking to transform their office culture.
This methodology guides the reader through taking stock of their current situation and raising awareness of what needs to change, to inspiring and involving all stakeholders, building for the future and embedding positive practices in all strategies.
Within these five steps, Teresa clearly illustrates the importance of many different aspects that impact the diversity and inclusivity of an organisation, including talent management, unconscious biases and male advocacy.
Embracing inclusivity and diversity not only ensures employees are supported and engaged, but also enables any business to stand out from their competitors, whilst crafting a positive brand identity as a welcoming organisation.
Teresa explains that Closing the Gap is the perfect read for any business professional seeking guidance at any point in their inclusivity journey.
“It is never too late for a business to stop and consider the impact of their policies on all members of the workforce and make meaningful changes to ensure all employees, both present and future, feel like an integral part of a positive force for good,” she said.
