Diversity and inclusion in the workplace

With younger generations especially placing priority on locating employers who align with their values of equity and representation, constructing inclusivity in the workplace is key for talent attraction and retention.

Beyond recruitment advantages, however, weaving principles of diversity and inclusion into the fabric of an office fit out grants additional benefits:

• Enhanced innovation and creativity: With a greater variety of voices and viewpoints represented, teams can reframe problems and devise unexpected solutions.
• Improved understanding of users' needs: Companies better serve their customers when internal diversity reflects the real-world demographics of end users.
• Better decision making: An inclusive workplace facilitates exchange between different groups, allowing more angles to inform determinations.
• Increased employee satisfaction: Employees feel more motivated and engaged when they can show up authentically without compromise and participate fully in business activities or growth opportunities.

True inclusion requires looking beyond equal opportunities and quota filling to holistic inclusion strategies that empower employees across all dimensions of diversity.

By keeping a pulse on the unique needs of different groups and individuals, companies can shape designs, policies, and programs to help encourage employees in feeling secure versus marginalised. Though every organisation's path will differ, effective starting points include:

• Ensuring physical accessibility: Install wheelchair ramps, elevators, adjustable desks, and adequate wayfinding signage so differently abled employees can utilise all spaces. Also consider sight, hearing, and other sensory impairments. For example, braille integrated with signage can be used to ensure all users of the space can navigate the workplace comfortably.
• Allowing workplace freedom: Let employees wear and present themselves genuinely, without pressure to conform to a standardised aesthetic.
• Offering private rooms: New mothers may require designated nursing areas while faith practitioners may appreciate quiet rooms for rituals if unable to access places of worship during work hours.
• Creating balanced spaces: Consider how elements like colour, lighting, textures, and materials impact the overall feel and energy of a space. Aim for a harmonious balance that allows different personality types to feel comfortable, whether that means an airy, bright aesthetic or something more muted.
• Incorporating natural materials: Bring in design components featuring natural timber, fabrics, green space, and other organic textures that can have a grounding, calming effect for many individuals. Soft textures from woods, upholstered furniture, plants, and more create a warmer, homier environment.