With diversity and inclusion continuing to be of importance to employees, becoming key reasons workers would choose to work for a business, Instant Offices gives a breakdown on how companies can be more responsible when it comes to key social issues. Around half of all millennial job-seekers are prioritising a culture of diversity and inclusion when choosing prospective employers – here are some of the key issues that matter most. Pride-friendly One of the most significant social issues globally is the way brands, and companies, address LGBTQ+ issues. Research from Engagement Labs shows a boost to both the online and offline metrics for brands which are actively promoting support for the LGBTQ+ community, indicating how consumers are responding positively to companies they view as being more progressive and embracing of diversity. Gender equality Following government legislation requiring UK companies and public sector organisations with 250 or more employees to publicly report on their gender pay gap, gender equality has become a prominent issue. Studies show that 40% of people believe that men are likely to be hired over women, while further research shows that men are also 30% more likely to be promoted to a managerial position despite the average gender pay gap being 9.1%, earning almost a quarter more than women. Belief-driven buying At the same time, purchasing decisions based on personal values have increased across all age groups: Reports reveal that belief-driven buying has gone mainstream, with 60% of consumers wanting brands to make it easier for them to see their values and positions on important issues. In 2018, the Earned Brand Report, which covered markets in the UK, USA, Brazil, China, France, Germany, India and Japan, revealed that: Japan saw the most significant, year-on-year, growth in belief-driven buying, with a 21% increase; t Embracing diversity Diversity in the workplace is another of today’s most widespread social issues; there is substantial research to support the fact that companies which take steps to become more diverse experience benefits as a result. Both consumers and employees chose to support brands and companies based on their forward-thinking approach to diversity. Further studies have also revealed that companies with an above average diversity score see, on average, a 45% increase in innovation, while those which are below average see only a 26% increase by comparison. Other advantages of having a diverse workforce include: How to create a more diverse company Diversity and equality in the workplace are just two crucial elements that make up a well-balanced workplace which is both accepting of, and welcoming to, all existing employees, as well as those looking to join the company. There are a few key ways that companies can ensure a diverse and tolerant environment: Don’t forget to follow us on Twitter, like us on Facebook, or connect with us on LinkedIn!
just two of millennials believe a diverse, inclusive workplace is more innovative, according to Instant Offices. It concluded that a wider talent pool encouraged creativity and reduced staff turnover, while also boosting a company's reputation, an important factor in the light of increased belief-based buying.