By Business & Finance 
Image designed by Moira Malone
The focus on diversity, equity and inclusion (DE&I) has grown in recent years. For employees and employers, it is considered a benchmark of success to be considered part of a company that values inclusivity. How can workplaces become better at implementing DE&I?
What is DE&I?
Diversity, equity and inclusion (DE&I) is the catch-all description given to the process through which employers protect employees from discrimination.
Diversity entails employing and valuing people from a range of varied backgrounds (class, race, gender, sexuality, etc) across all levels of a company. In order to limit the propagation of bias, it is important to have such voices heard in decision-making processes.
Equity is the establishment of fair processes and opportunities for all, regardless of background. It is also the acknowledgement of factors that have historically blocked minority groups from succeeding in the workplace.
Inclusion refers to a company culture that hones belonging and respect for difference. It also ensures people are represented in every facet of the business.
How can companies generate strong DE&I?
Having strong DE&I leads to better outcomes for companies. “There are clear correlations between diversity and business performance,” says a 2022 McKinsey & Company report.
The report draws from data that “encompasses 15 countries and more than 1,000 large companies,” alongside research on employee sentiment.
“Analysis of 2019 data shows that companies in the top quartile for gender diversity within executive teams were 25 percent more likely than companies in the fourth quartile to have above-average profitability (up from 21 percent in 2017 and 15 percent in 2014).”
The report also notes that, despite evidence of its success, “progress in building diverse workforces remains stubbornly slow.”
DE&I provides access to a wider talent pool, with greater emphasis on diversity of thought and experience. Companies can do a lot to ensure DE&I is honed and improved:
- Encourage open dialogue and transparency in decision-making processes.
- Develop and facilitate conversations and themed events that encourage learning and intersectional dialogue.
- Have a zero tolerance policy for bigotry and microaggressions.
- Highlight collaboration between employees.
- Allow equality of opportunity for all employees.
- Facilitate diverse leadership so all employees can see opportunities for job progression regardless of background.
Diversity in Tech Awards
Organised by Dublin Tech Summit, the Diversity in Tech Awards (DITA) aim to highlight the achievements of companies and individuals that promote different backgrounds and genders across Ireland’s booming technology industry.
The deadline for nominations for the 2023 Diversity in Tech Awards has been extended to 28th June 2023. You can submit nominations for this year’s awards here.
Read more:
Nominations deadline extended for Diversity in Tech Awards in partnership with JP Morgan
Beyond míle fáilte: Building an ethnically and culturally diverse Ireland
The impact of Ireland’s EU membership on women
