In my book, “Suck It Up, Buttercup. Be a Leader People Will Follow”. I talk about the fact that “Business is All About Relationships” emphasizes the importance of inclusivity in fostering successful business relationships. Relationships are the foundation of business, whether with employees, customers, or vendors. A solid rapport can lead to loyal customers, flexible vendors, and motivated employees who are willing to go above and beyond. Conversely, damaging one relationship can have a ripple effect, impacting other connections and ultimately harming the bottom line.
To cultivate a thriving business environment, inclusivity must be a priority. This means focusing on a person’s ability, performance, and behavior, rather than their age, race, gender, disability, or any other non-work-related factors. I am an advocate for a diverse workforce: inclusivity is not just a moral obligation but a strategic business move.
In today’s competitive job market, ignoring diversity can be detrimental, as qualified talent comes from all backgrounds. As of 2021, 40.7% of the U.S. population does not identify as White, 13.5% are foreign-born, and 8.6% of people under 65 are disabled and part of the workforce. These statistics point to the undeniable fact that businesses must tap into a diverse talent pool to succeed. For current statistics and resources on diversity and workforce inclusivity, visit the U.S. Census Bureau at www.census.gov.
Merely adding diversity is not enough. Businesses must also be open to hearing and considering the perspectives of diverse team members (with diverse thoughts based on diverse experiences) to fully leverage their strengths. Ignoring these contributions not only reflects poor business judgment but may also suggest underlying prejudice or bigotry. Being inclusive does not require agreement with every viewpoint, but it does necessitate respect and acknowledgment of different perspectives.
The book closes with a powerful call to action:
- Inclusivity is not only an ethical decision but a practical business strategy.
- Embracing diversity and fostering inclusive relationships is key to maintaining a competitive edge in today’s market.
- I urge business leaders to reflect on their approach to inclusivity and decide whether they are ready to adapt or risk falling behind.
Get the book here in PDF format https://thehrlady.com/author/.
Enjoy!
Wendy
