Inclusion Definition
Inclusion means that individuals with personalities are respected, welcomed, valued included, acknowledged and heard. It ensures that everyone can express themselves authentically, contribute to the team and have a voice.
Let’s explore:
To achieve inclusion in the workplace we must actively and consistently embrace diversity while promoting fairness and equal rights throughout the organization. This includes identifying and removing any barriers that may exist.
What Exactly is Inclusion in the Workplace?
It is a culture that embraces diversity in all aspects of our lives.
However, it would be naive to think that simply focusing on inclusion automatically eliminates all inequalities in the workplace.
By making inclusion our objective we are more likely to see diversity among our employees. This leads to treatment for everyone.
It also increases equality of opportunities.
Why is Inclusion Important in the Workplace?
All evidence and reports suggest that organizations focused on building an inclusive culture attract and retain a range of talent.
An inclusive culture allows diverse talents to bring perspectives and experiences to the table and diversity becomes a driver for innovation, growth and engagement.
Organizations empower employees to approach things differently, working in a manner that suits them. Encouraging work patterns also ensures a work life balance and enables them to perform at their best.
The focus on Inclusion is crucial for companies to have an impact on their wellbeing and the outcomes of the organizations.
The world is constantly changing, and Inclusion plays a role in ensuring the future success of workplaces. Many organizations value a working environment model.
However, genuine Inclusion is a process that requires learning.
Improving Inclusion in the workplace is a task as individuals are becoming more comfortable expressing their needs and finding what motivates them in their work.
Another important aspect that deserves attention is Financial Inclusion but before we delve into it lets first understand what it means.
Financial Inclusion Meaning
Financial Inclusion refers to enabling everyone to access services that can help them build stability. These services include savings accounts, credit options, loans, equity opportunities and insurance coverage.
The Significance of Financial Inclusion
Can you imagine buying a car or a house without applying for a loan? Most of us wouldn’t be able to. What about paying for emergency care without insurance?
It can be extremely challenging for individuals who do not have access to services to save money to cover their expenses let alone build a secure financial future.
The lack of inclusion is a problem worldwide. 1.5 billion people in developing economies do not have access to savings and credit options.
They pay for everything in real money, have no safe method for setting aside and putting away their cash, and depend on casual banks and individual organizations for credit.
Employees expect more from their company
A key aspect of building a society involves ensuring that everyone has access to financial services and professional opportunities, which ultimately leads to wealth.
The COVID 19 pandemic has significantly changed the way people work with transitioning from office based to hybrid arrangements.
The current workforce, affected by the pandemic, has expressed a need for more than a paycheck from their employers.
To address this demand numerous companies are now offering tools and programs. One way they are striving for equity and inclusion is by examining their employment contracts and considering resources for financial literacy and early access to wages as solutions to meet their employee’s needs.
Unlike wellbeing tools, on demand pay can be seen as more of an inclusive benefit that empowers employees with greater choices and valuable opportunities.
By providing employees with access to education and wellness tools we can alleviate the stress and anxiety caused by financial ignorance in the workplace.
This will have effects on productivity, attendance rates, mental health and overall employee engagement.
By providing access to advice, guidance and education on topics such as retirement savings, budgeting, planning for college expenses and debt repayment strategies employers are taking a holistic approach to employee wellbeing.
As a result, employers reap the benefits of having more productive employees who stay longer in their roles because they perceive that their employer genuinely cares about their future.
Final Thoughts
Financial Inclusion is often overlooked when discussing diversity, equity and inclusion. However, businesses have the potential to play a role in promoting wellbeing and inclusivity by helping employees achieve greater financial independence, removing barriers to saving and providing resources for financial security.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is workplace inclusion important?
Answer: Inclusion in the workplace fosters a sense of belonging among colleagues leading to increased productivity, innovation and effective leadership.
What is the primary objective of inclusion?
Answer: Inclusion is a right, for everyone. Its aim should be to embrace individuals of their race, age, gender identity, disability status, religious or cultural beliefs or sexual orientation. True inclusion occurs when we eliminate all barriers, discrimination and intolerance.
What are the 7 key principles of inclusion?
Answer:
- Choice.
- Partnerships.
- Communication.
- Policy.
- Opportunities.