A healthy working environment is a benefit to everyone, including clients. There are so many angles to look at when talking about a successful business – every part of the machine needs to function at its best. And perhaps one of the most important aspects of a seamlessly operated business is workplace and workforce health. And a big component of your teams’ well-being is ensuring every member knows that they are valued. This means putting emphasis on an inclusive and diverse workplace. At Advanced Home Care Solutions, we know the importance of respecting and encouraging cultural diversity and inclusivity. As an RN staffing agency, the basis of our work is compassion and care – naturally, these subjects play a huge role in our company’s initiatives.

Before diving into the intricacies of inclusion and diversity, let’s go over the basics…

What is Cultural Diversity? What Does it Encompass?

Cultural diversity at its core is an inclusion, respect and understanding of people from various backgrounds and ethnic origins. The ultimate focus of cultural diversity is to learn from each other and fight against homogenization of cultures. Showing respect for our differences is essential to an enlightened and more compassionate world.

What Does Inclusivity Encompass?

Differences of gender, race, sexuality, social background, physical and mental ability are championed by an inclusive workplace. To include is to acknowledge, accept, and embrace what makes each of us different and what makes us all the same. And that begins with recognizing that we all have value and are worthy of respect. Inclusion allows us ALL to feel that we have a place, that we belong and that we are seen and heard. It brings people together in all types of settings and gives way for deeper connections and understanding.

Prioritizing inclusion and cultural diversity isn’t just of value to your business, but to your personal wellbeing and that of everyone around you. We must commit to continue learning from and engaging with one another in order to advance and make progress as a society. With that in mind, it can be extremely beneficial to make a point of furthering the conversation and allowing each person to have the floor.

When it comes to running a respect-first company, awareness is key. Allow and encourage an open dialogue and transparency so that nothing slips through the cracks. Management should always be aware of any and all work-related concerns that their employees have – this includes feelings of exclusion, discrimination, etc.

Address Concerns Immediately 

If an employee comes to you with concerns, don’t sit on this information. By waiting to take action, you are deprioritizing the needs of your team and potentially creating a toxic work atmosphere. If conflict resolution is necessary, be sure to include relevant parties, like HR reps, in these conversations.

Keep The Conversation Going 

Don’t wait until there’s a new concern to address – be proactive, thoughtful and respectful. Empathize with your employees, check in and learn about their lived experience in and out of the workplace. This simple gesture helps to make everyone feel valued and heard.

Educate Yourself

All anyone wants is to be understood and accepted for who they are. If you are unsure of how to approach conversations regarding differences, educate yourself and genuinely try to deepen your understanding. If we don’t make a sincere effort to understand each other, how can we even begin to empathize?

Keep an open mind, avoid stereotypes, and recognize that your perspective isn’t the only perspective. Everyone brings something different to the table and there is so much value in that.

Every business should take steps to promote a safe, respectful and open work environment for ALL its employees – that is how to foster inclusivity.