As we enjoy the holiday season, many gifts will be given and exchanged. The care with which the gift is wrapped gives value to it before it is even opened. DEI is an absolute gift to organizations that should be packaged in care because it is more than a requirement but a foundational building block to a healthy workplace culture and effective interpersonal relationships. When done well, diversity, equity, and inclusion will maximize its value throughout the year and the lifetime of an organization.   

This investment into transformational DEI brings cyclical benefits because it becomes a part of building and sustaining a healthy culture. Employees desire to know that DEI Is more than an agenda but an appreciation for their presence as they do what they enjoy while being respected. When employers provide the gift of DEI and the next level of culture transformation, they will receive more commitment in return from their employees.   

When a culture is unhealthy, quiet quitting becomes a risk. The term, ‘quiet quitting’ is a recent trending topic, but it has likely always existed to a degree. A number of our clients report higher turnover rates than normal – an indication that we are still dealing with the Great Resignation and further compounded by declines in employee engagement since 2020. Forbes, 2022 

As employees withdraw loyalty and commitment, performance reduces to bare minimum levels and staunch boundaries are established around how much they give of themselves. 

However, companies that realized the value of DEI have found that one of the first continual gifts of DEI is the financial return. Companies that embrace inclusion have an increased chance of meeting their financial target goals by up to 120%. Forbes, 2021 When your employees are committed, you save the time and costs associated with turnover and replacement staffing. Developing committed employees who are well-educated about the organization over a more extended period reduces internal disruptions that affect profitability. 

Another benefit of this lasting gift is that when employees are happy at work, they create positive brand awareness for you. They are marketing your organization whenever someone asks what they do and if they are happy at their company. A positive social media post about their experience working for you is one of the best advertisements, and others take note. This organic branding increases the possibility that others will consider your business for their needs or spread the word that you are an attractive employer. In today’s employee-driven market, this is essential and a definite benefit. 

Yes, there is more! When organizations invest in DEI, they create the opportunity to increase their employees’ emotional intelligence and support better interaction to prevent communication breakdowns within and across teams. Thought processes improve, and limited mindsets evolve. When employees are more self-aware, they can contribute as their authentic selves and understand how certain behaviors result in positive, supportive communication. Furthermore, employees begin to align with the vision and invite others to participate in the diversity dynamic. 

The C.A.R.E. approach we offer our clients opens unlimited opportunities for innovation, interactive environments, intelligent strategy, and conversation that continue to yield thriving, inclusive environments. 

DEI is an investment but a gift that keeps giving back to you in innumerable ways. Transformation is not an overlay of a toxic culture but a culture shifter that uproots organizational facets that prohibit growth and inclusivity. 

Season after season can be jolly and bright with the right tools to guide you in creating spaces where diversity is appreciated, respect is for all, and inclusion is always the centerpiece and your organization’s pride and joy!