Top 4 DEI Trends to Watch in [2024]
Every year, the country is captivated by new and recurring societal issues, which ignite long-overdue conversations. Gender-based issues, racial issues, and class issues—the list continues.
On the surface, these social issues may not seem important in the corporate world. But these are as important in the corporate world as the political world.
Far too many companies tend to respond reactively in regard to social movements. Instead, organizations must proactively promote diversity, equity, and inclusion.
In the wake of George Floyd’s murder in 2020, access to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs surged from 29 percent in 2019 to 43 percent in 2021. But the figure dipped to 41 percent through the third quarter of 2022, reveals Glassdoor’s research.
Not many know that job seekers are more interested in companies that actively advocate for DEI. With halfway to 2023, here are a few trends that will lead the DEI conversation this year and beyond.
#1 Organization Addressing Social Issues Will Become Commonplace
ESG or environmental, social, and governance factors (ESG) is believed to have a significant impact on the reputation and ability of organizations to attract customers and employees. That makes ESG a critical area to focus on in 2023 for success in the industry.
Both current and potential employees find organizations supporting environmental and social causes more appealing. Leaders are now expected to put social issues at the forefront of discussions.
The latest Workforce Happiness survey released by SurveyMonkey and CNBC discloses that 78 percent of American workers want to work with organizations that value diversity, equity, and inclusion.
As a leader, ensuring diversity in your office or organization has become more important than ever. Devising DEI initiatives and strategies will become more vital than ever for organizations seeking to differentiate themselves in a competitive landscape.
Apple is an excellent example of the successful implementation of diversity and inclusion programs. The March 2022 Inclusion and Diversity Report released by Apple showed an uptick in the number of female employees by 89 percent since 2014. Besides, the number of American workers from underrepresented populations increased by 74 percent.
#2 Gender Identity Will Take Center Stage
Everyone’s familiar with the ongoing debate on gender identity, expression, and diversity. This broad and expanding topic is anticipated to change throughout and beyond 2023.
The labels and words people use to define themselves matter. Organizations must familiarize themselves with those labels and words and understand how to engage.
As public awareness of gender diversity grows, surveys with over two gender options have climbed from 16.4 percent to 64 percent, reveals a 2022 study by SurveyMonkey.
Oddly enough, the choices are becoming more detailed. The initial option “other” is now being replaced by “non-binary.” As a leader, you must remember to approach gender diversity discussions with respect and understanding.
#3 Supporting Employees’ Mental Health
A recent employee research well-being study discovered that only 16 percent of American workers are flourishing at work due to their positive state of well-being. The COVID-19 pandemic is believed to be responsible for the rise of mental health issues in employees. No surprise, employees’ mental health has become a growing concern among employers.
A holistic approach that includes spiritual, emotional, and mental well-being, social connections, financial security, and physical health is the need of the hour.
#4 Evolving Remote Workforce
The COVID-19 pandemic forced companies to adopt a work-from-home model. Though employees are returning to the office, the remote work model doesn’t seem to go anywhere.
Global Workforce Analytics reveals that 56 percent of the American workforce has a job that can be carried out from a remote setting, partially, if not entirely.
By embracing the remote work culture, you can tap into a wide range of talent. You will be able to hire the best talents from all over the world. Even better is that you will be able to connect with people who are physically disabled yet intellectually smart.
Remember that creating a remote workforce comes with its own set of challenges. As your team works from different locations, the living conditions will vary from employee to employee.
Unlike men, women are expected to balance home and work life. There’s also a high possibility that not every employee may have access to a quiet or dedicated workspace.
Nevertheless, the benefits of remote working are plenty. ConnectSolution’s recent findings cite that 77 percent of remote workers are more productive when working remotely.
In turn, you could save over $700 billion yearly. To reap the benefits of remote working, you will have to figure out a way to bridge the gaps.
It’s Time to Drive DEI Efforts in Your Organization
DEI is much more than a progressive concept or idea. As a matter of fact, it has now become the need of the hour for companies globally.
With older societal and social issues marching forward and newer ones rising to the surface, it has become important for organizations to keep a close pulse on the latest DEI trends.
The trends mentioned reveal that the world is ready for radical change, and organizations must realize this. Otherwise, molding the company culture in the right ways will become difficult.
