Inclusion as a Business Strategy
By Jon Santiago
Forum Solutions 2024 Values Series: Article 1
Welcome to the first article of our Forum Solutions Values series—a curated collection of articles around the values that drive our firm: Authenticity, Collaboration, Excellence, Inclusion, and Innovation. Our opening article casts a spotlight on Inclusion, a value integral to our collective progress and success at Forum Solutions.
Embracing Inclusion: A Strategic Imperative for Modern Businesses
In today's rapidly evolving business landscape, the concept of inclusion transcends mere corporate responsibility – it has become a strategic imperative. The essence of inclusion lies in valuing every individual in an organization, recognizing that diverse perspectives and backgrounds are not just assets but necessities in driving innovation and resilience. This realization is not just a moral awakening; it is an economic and strategic one.
“As organizations navigate the complexities of the modern world, those who embrace and actively foster an inclusive culture are better positioned to thrive. ”
The Human Connection: Inclusion as a Survival Strategy
At their core, humans are social beings, driven by a deep-seated need for connection and a sense of belonging, comparable in necessity to the basic needs of food and shelter. In the realm of business, this fundamental human trait underscores the importance of cultivating a workplace where employees are not just present but are genuinely engaged and feel a part of something.
This calls for a shift in mindset. It is crucial for businesses to not just passively acknowledge but actively celebrate and reinforce positive, inclusive behaviors in the workplace. Echoing the findings of a Workhuman report on the benefits of employee recognition, there is a clear correlation between employee recognition and engagement: employees who believe that their contributions are valued and recognized are significantly more engaged, feel a stronger connection to their company's culture, and are less prone to burnout. This is not merely about boosting morale; it is a strategic move towards nurturing a culture of high performance and resilience.
Proactive Recognition: Fueling Engagement and Connection
Recognition in the workplace can take many forms, from acknowledging the efforts of individuals in promoting inclusivity to celebrating collective achievements that reflect diverse contributions. The key is to align recognition with the organization's values. When employees see their values reflected in recognition programs, they are more likely to understand and align with organizational goals, creating a cohesive and inclusive environment.
Inclusive Recruitment: The Starting Point of Organizational Diversity
Diversity and inclusion start at recruitment. A truly inclusive hiring process looks beyond the conventional markers of identity and focuses on the skills and potential of candidates. This approach not only ensures a diverse workforce but also enriches the organization with varied perspectives and ideas. Companies that excel in this – like Accenture, Starbucks, and Forum Solutions – do not just talk about diversity; they embed it in every aspect of their organizational fabric.
Inclusive Leadership: Setting the Tone from the Top
Inclusion must be championed from the top. Business leaders are not just decision-makers; they are tone-setters who can foster a culture of acceptance and respect. This involves educating teams on inclusive behaviors and implementing policies that support diversity and inclusion initiatives. It is about creating a safe space where every employee feels valued and empowered.
Practical Steps Towards an Inclusive Culture:
Celebrate Diversity: Recognizing and celebrating diverse holidays and cultural events is a powerful way of showing respect and appreciation for different backgrounds.
Employee Feedback: Actively seeking and acting on feedback from diverse employees can lead to meaningful changes in the organization, enhancing inclusivity.
Anonymous Recruiting: To combat unconscious biases, anonymous recruiting focuses on the qualifications and skills of candidates, promoting a fair and inclusive hiring process.
Invest in Training: Training programs on cultural sensitivity and inclusion are crucial in educating employees about respecting and supporting each other’s differences.
Diverse Product Development: Involving employees from diverse backgrounds in product development can lead to innovative and inclusive products that cater to a broader market.
Conclusion: Inclusion as a Business Strategy
Inclusion is not just a moral imperative; it is a business strategy that leads to better employee engagement, innovation, and resilience. As organizations navigate the complexities of the modern world, those who embrace and actively foster an inclusive culture are better positioned to thrive. Creating an environment where every individual feels valued, heard, and empowered to contribute to their fullest potential, drives the organization towards sustainable success.
Forum Solutions was founded on the principle that diversity of experiences and ideas leads to better outcomes when solving the complex challenges our clients and communities face today.
We promote and seek out diversity, fostering an environment where everyone is heard and their opinions matter. Inclusion is our pledge to empower every individual to inspire and make an impact with our Firm and our Clients.
Jon Santiago is a seasoned Forum Solutions Senior Consultant with deep experience in global trade & supply chain, brand development and international business risk management. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Political Science from Portland State University and a Master of Arts in Applied International Studies from the University of Washington.
Forum Solutions is a management consulting company dedicated to crafting and delivering transformational outcomes for our clients, our colleagues, and our community. With our help, clients become more agile, resilient, and connected, bringing great ideas to fruition with brilliant results. From start-ups to the Fortune 50, business leaders rely on Forum Solutions to help them form and realize their strategies. Our company is a certified Woman Owned Business that believes in developing and growing our colleagues, company, and region in a socially conscious way.