As the business world evolves, prospective employees seek companies that value their talent and will make the additional effort to make them feel comfortable. If a business wants to increase employee retention, creating an inclusive work environment can be essential to stay competitive. This article will discuss the importance of inclusivity in the workplace and how business owners can incorporate it into their corporate culture.
Why Inclusivity Is Crucial for Small Businesses
An inclusive work environment is critical to making your small business attract a motivated group of employees who are engaged in their work.
Promoting workplace inclusivity also has many other benefits, such as:
- Increased workplace productivity
- A diverse company culture
- Recruit and retain a more skilled and diverse talent pool
- Encourage a creative work environment
- Boost your company’s annual profits
How to Make Your Business More Inclusive
Design Inclusive Job Listings
Being open with what you expect from a potential employee is the first step to attracting talent. However, ensuring your potential employee clearly understands the nature of the job is the only first step. In addition, employers can make a job description more inclusive by discussing special accommodations available for workers needing them.
Another essential part of a job description is being sensitive in your language. According to Lever, incorporating gender-neutral language and using a more flexible approach to job requirements will capture potential employees’ attention.
Partner With Workforce Development Services
There are many job advocacy organizations, nonprofits, and other services for workers with disabilities. For example, the Social Security Administration’s Ticket To Work program focuses on helping disability recipients by giving them a chance to join the workforce and become self-sufficient. By partnering with these programs, employers have access to a diverse pool of employees while helping them achieve their full potential.
Accommodate Your Employees’ Needs at the Workplace
The Americans with Disabilities Act requires employers to accommodate individuals with disabilities to allow them to fulfill their essential job duties. If you know an employee has a disability, be proactive and invest in suitable accommodations to meet their personal needs.
Some of these facilities include:
- Flexible work arrangements
- Assigning appropriate work tasks
- Designated parking spots
- Modifying training materials
- Improving your workplace’s accessibility
Be Receptive to Employee Suggestions
A recent poll shows that nearly half of employees think their feedback doesn’t lead to company changes. With this idea in mind, employers must step up and use employee feedback to improve their company. Most workers want to feel like their voice matters and that they can create positive changes in their work environment. By incorporating feedback, you also foster an environment where employees can express their ideas and contribute to the company’s success.
Ensure Your Employees Feel Included at Work
Employees seek companies that value their talents and go out of their way to make them feel comfortable. By creating an inclusive company culture, you will easily attract talented employees, increase productivity, and ensure long-term success for your business.
