In recent years, the importance of inclusivity and diversity has been highlighted in ways that we haven't really seen previously. Differences in ability and experience can bring enlightening new perspectives to the workplace, and inclusive environments are often realised as far more positive places to be, but why is that? Today, we'll be shining some light on this issue by exploring four amazing benefits of diversity in the workplace:

Everyone Gets Equal Opportunities

Possibly the biggest and most obvious benefit of inclusive employment in Australia is that everyone receives equal opportunity. This is great on a personal level for those who may be disadvantaged in less diverse settings, but it also benefits everyone in the company. You'll get better, more unique results when more ideas and perspectives are brought to the table.

Inclusivity is now a legal requirement in many places and an ethical one everywhere, so you'll be doing your bit to better society and protect the future interests of your business and its employees by complying with legislation.

Staff Members Feel More Comfortable

A slightly less obvious benefit of diversity in the workplace is that everyone can feel far more comfortable in the office. When you put a collection of people in close proximity for large amounts of time, cliques are bound to form. However, if that group of people is diverse, everyone should be able to find something in common with at least a few others in the workplace.

People who are more comfortable are shown to be both more social and more productive, so you'll end up with an office environment that features increased positivity and production, which equals better outcomes all round.

There Are More Opportunities For Personal Growth

Another great benefit on a personal level for members of all parts of the company is that a diverse and inclusive culture provides far more opportunities for personal growth. Not only does exposure to different abilities, cultures, viewpoints and ways of life help us to become more accepting, well-rounded humans, it also means that we will have more chances to experiment, often with things that we may not have even thought to play with previously. This personal growth within your organization will then flow on to improved business growth, so you win on both fronts.

Your Business Will Have Better Employee Retention

People like to spend time in places where they feel welcomed and valued. An inclusive atmosphere can help fulfil both of these desires. Additionally, as noted above, employees in companies with a diverse workforce will feel more comfortable, and as we all crave comfort, people will be more likely to remain in a position where they feel at ease.

Employees who stay with one company for extended amounts of time tend to report a better sense of wellbeing. While this is great for those individuals, improved employee retention also equals, you guessed it, better business outcomes, so this is great for you. Plus, it costs a crazy amount to replace anyone in your organization, so hanging onto staff saves you a ton of money.

The great thing about all four of these benefits is that they serve to make things better for both staff and the company as a whole. This, in all honesty, is the best thing about a diverse, inclusive environment – it lifts everyone up and has a positive impact that carries over into people’s everyday lives.