From Juneteenth to Business Success: The power of inclusivity

As we celebrate Juneteenth, here at Material we reflect on the progress made towards achieving inclusivity and diversity in our society, especially within the business world. Inclusivity is not only a moral responsibility, but also a smart business strategy that drives growth and innovation.

It's essential to consider who may be missing from conversations and make a genuine effort to seek out a wide range of perspectives. This is particularly important in a business context where diverse viewpoints often lead to more creative and effective solutions for complex challenges. By creating an inclusive culture, businesses can tap into the full range of talents and experiences of their employees, customers, and partners.
 
One of the significant advantages of inclusivity is its power to help businesses develop a better understanding of and connect with diverse customer segments. Companies that fail to embrace diversity risk falling behind in today's interconnected global world. By embracing inclusivity, businesses can develop products and services that meet the needs of a broader range of customers while building stronger relationships with them.
 
Moreover, inclusivity plays a pivotal role in attracting and retaining top talent. Employees want to work for companies that genuinely value diversity and create an inclusive environment where everyone feels a sense of belonging. By fostering a culture of inclusivity, businesses can attract a wider pool of candidates and retain employees who feel valued and supported.
 
Achieving inclusivity is not always easy and requires a sustained effort to identify and address unconscious biases. It also demands a commitment to actively listen to and incorporate feedback from diverse perspectives.
 

• Establishing employee resource groups (ERGs) is an effective strategy for promoting inclusivity in the workplace. These voluntary, employee-led groups bring together individuals who share common identities or interests and provide a platform for underrepresented employees to connect with each other, share their experiences, and offer valuable feedback to management on ways to improve inclusivity.

 

• Integrating diversity and inclusivity into every aspect of the business, including hiring, promotions, and decision-making, is another essential approach. This means setting clear diversity and inclusion goals, tracking progress towards those goals, and holding leaders accountable for fostering an inclusive culture.

 
Inclusivity should be an integral part of any business strategy. It's not just a matter of ticking a box or fulfilling a legal requirement. It's a smart and ethical approach that drives growth and innovation. By embracing inclusivity, businesses can access a wider pool of talent and ideas, connect with diverse customers, and foster a culture of creativity and collaboration. Inclusivity is not only a moral imperative but also a strategic advantage. It requires a sustained effort to identify and address unconscious biases, integrate diversity and inclusion into every aspect of the business, and hold leaders accountable for fostering an inclusive culture. With a commitment to inclusivity, businesses can build a more resilient and competitive future.