Why is inclusion important in the workplace?

• Makes for an ethical and strong work culture

Inclusive working environments often have desirable workplace cultures. This leads to job seekers wanting to work at companies that they know have inclusive work environments. Diversity in terms of employees also helps contribute to different perspectives that might be utilized to improve a company's work culture.

• Enhances employee retention and loyalty

When employees feel welcomed and valued at a company this can make them stay longer and ultimately lead to higher employee retention rates. Inclusion also fosters trust, and trust can lead to respect amongst employees at a company, making it a desirable place to work, and one that employees are not easily ready to leave.

• Improves employee performance

This applies to hiring practices. When a company's hiring managers, recruiters, and other hiring personnel are focused on a candidate's merits rather than having some form of bias, it means the company is going to get the best of the best in terms of job candidates. This in turn affects employee performance.

• Reputation of the company

Companies that practice inclusiveness often form good reputations in their industry and in the public eye. This makes public relations for the company a lot easier. Companies with strong reputations often see the most engagement from customers and other businesses. A strong company reputation can also have a positive effect on employee retention rates.