00:00Welcome back to the bizfluencer pixelanet podcast channel.
00:09Today we are tackling a topic that's not just a trend but a fundamental shift in how we
00:16approach the workplace that is diversity, equity and inclusion often abbreviated as
00:25DEI.
00:29Now we have probably heard these terms thrown around a lot lately but DEI is much more than
00:36just a corporate buzzword or a checkbox to tick.
00:41It's a mindset, a set of values and a commitment to creating a workplace where everyone feels
00:48valued, respected and has equal opportunities to succeed.
00:55What does DEI really mean?
00:59Let's break down what each of these terms means.
01:04Diversity – this is about recognizing and valuing the differences among people.
01:11These differences can be based on race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, age, disability,
01:19religion, socio-economic status or any other characteristic that makes us unique.
01:27Equity – this is about ensuring that everyone has fair access to the same opportunities
01:34regardless of their background.
01:37It recognizes that not everyone starts at the same place and that sometimes we need
01:44to provide additional support or resources to level the playing field.
01:53Inclusion – this is about creating a workplace where everyone feels like they belong, where
02:00their voices are heard and where their contributions are valued.
02:06It's about fostering a sense of community and belonging for all employees.
02:13Why DEI Matters – So, leaders care about DEI a lot because the answer is simple.
02:25It's good for business, research and it has consistently shown that research has diverse
02:34teams and are more innovative, creative and better at problem solving.
02:42They are also better at attracting and retaining top talent and they have higher employee engagement
02:48and morale.
02:51But DEI isn't just about numbers and bottom lines, it's about creating a workplace that's
02:59fair, just and equitable for everyone.
03:04It's about living up to our values and creating a world where everyone has the opportunity
03:10to reach their full potential.
03:15Now what's the role of a leader in fostering DEI?
03:20Leaders play a crucial role in creating a DEI workplace.
03:25It starts with recognizing that DEI is a journey, not a destination.
03:32It takes time, commitment and ongoing effort.
03:36Here are some key steps leaders can take.
03:41Educate yourself.
03:43Learn about the different dimensions of diversity and the challenges that underrepresented groups
03:49face in the workplace.
03:55Examine your own biases.
03:59We all have biases, whether we are aware of them or not.
04:03It's important to be honest with yourself about your own biases and take steps to mitigate
04:09them.
04:11Set clear goals and metrics.
04:14Establish clear DEI goals for your organization and track your progress over time.
04:22This could include goals related to recruitment, retention, promotion and employee engagement.
04:31Create a culture of inclusion.
04:33Foster an environment where everyone feels safe to speak up, share their ideas and be
04:40their authentic selves.
04:43Provide training and development opportunities.
04:46Offer training on topics like unconscious bias, cultural competence and allyship.
04:55Help employees develop the skills they need to work effectively in a diverse environment.
05:03Hold yourself and others accountable.
05:05Make DEI a part of your performance evaluations and hold yourself and others accountable for
05:12making progress.
05:14Building a better workplace for everyone.
05:18By embracing DEI, leaders can create a workplace that is not only more successful but also
05:29more just and equitable.
05:32It's about building a better future for everyone, one where everyone has the opportunity to
05:38thrive.
05:42Thank you for joining us for this important conversation about diversity, equity and inclusion.
05:49Remember DEI is a journey and not a destination.
05:53It takes time, effort and a commitment to learning and growing.
05:59But the rewards are worth it.
06:01A more innovative, engaged and successful workplace where everyone feels valued and
06:08respected.
06:09Until next time, keep learning and leading.
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