During the month of June, known as Diversity Month, Energía Local would like to remind you of the important role that diversity plays in companies throughout the year.     Diversity is not only about including people of different genders, ethnicities, ages, sexual orientations and abilities, but also about creating a safe and fair environment where all employees feel valued and respected.   In this article, we will look at how diversity benefits companies, the benefits it brings and why it is important to implement it. 

Diversity in business, a key role  

Diversity in business has a positive impact that goes beyond ethical commitment and legal compliance.   Having a multicultural, diverse or multi-generational workforce fosters innovation, improves decision-making and strengthens corporate culture. It also provides opportunities to better engage with stakeholders and an increasingly diverse society.    In addition, an inclusive, diverse culture that respects and promotes the human rights of every employee is a key element of employer branding. From attracting new employees to retaining talent. This is according to a study carried out by talent company Randstad, which shows that younger generations take social and environmental values into account when accepting a job.    It should be noted that as of 3 March 2023, under Law 4/2023, companies with more than 50 employees must have a planned set of measures and resources to achieve real and effective equality for LGTBI people, including an action protocol for dealing with harassment or violence against LGTBI people.    

What are the benefits to the business and employees?  

As mentioned above, diversity has a ripple effect throughout the organisation, bringing a range of benefits to all stakeholders.   Here are some of the benefits for organisations: 

• Increased creativity and innovation  

• Improved decision making  

• Increased competitiveness and financial performance as a competitive advantage over other companies   

• Attract and retain talent  

• Enhanced reputation, both externally and internally, as it demonstrates the organisation’s commitment to its employees  

• Legal compliance and ethical commitment in line with corporate values. 

On the other hand, employees are one of the main beneficiaries of being part of a company with a strong commitment to diversity and inclusion. The benefits to them include:  

• A positive working climate and well-being  

• An environment that encourages learning and personal growth  

• A safe and inclusive working environment  

• Equal opportunities 

Tools to make your organisation a diverse and inclusive environment   

Energía Local, a benchmark consultancy in sustainability, diversity and CSR, helps you to implement a strategy that facilitates the implementation of policies and practices related to inclusion and equal opportunities.   Our services include training and awareness raising on diversity and inclusion for all employees. For example, we advise on inclusive language and non-sexist communication, prevention of sexual harassment based on sex, sexual orientation, sexual identity and/or gender identity, or gender perspective in recruitment and hiring processes, among many others.   Measures such as adopting inclusive recruitment policies, promoting diverse leadership or implementing flexible work and family reconciliation policies are not to be forgotten when it comes to improving diversity and inclusion in your organisation.   If you are interested in strengthening your corporate culture and fulfilling your values and objectives, do not hesitate to contact our team. We will advise you personally.