Benefits of a diverse, equal and inclusive workplace

Having a diverse, equal and inclusive workforce means:

• employers have access to the widest range of talent available
• tackling the barriers that some groups face in work that others do not
• the best person for the role gets the job

Why diversity, equality and inclusion in work are important

Diversity, equality and inclusion helps organisations to:

• attract and keep top talent
• allow skilled people who are often overlooked to get into work, stay in work and thrive there
• make better decisions based on workers’ lived experiences, leading to better innovation, problem-solving, adaptability and resilience
• improve their business and brand reputation with workers and consumers
• increase employee engagement – workers feel more valued, leading to better performance 
• reduce legal risks and make sure staff get equal treatment to follow equality law 
• tackle inequality through initiatives such as flexible working
• show commitment to equity and social responsibility at work
• give workers financial security and independence, reducing poverty gaps and improving financial inclusion
• challenge stereotypes by making sure that disability and diversity are visible and normalised

Some tips for creating a diverse and inclusive workplace

Write job descriptions inclusively, without biased language. Find out about writing inclusive job descriptions on LinkedIn.

You could let applicants submit their applications in different ways, for example:

• online
• by email
• by post 

This can help to make your hiring process more accessible. Online applications may not be accessible for disabled jobseekers or people who cannot use digital devices or the internet.

Make role requirements clear and specific. Include the salary in job adverts and advertise the specific benefits of the role.

Give job applicants information on how they can ask for reasonable adjustments during the interview process, if they need them.

Find out more about reasonable adjustments on GOV.UK.

Anonymise applications by removing identifying information from CVs and application forms before hiring managers review them.

Offer flexible working by default. This will help to attract and keep diverse talent.

Resources for employers on diversity, equality and inclusion

Find out about making an equality, diversity and inclusion (EDI) strategy for your business on CIPD.

Find out how you can support workers with accessibility needs and reasonable adjustments on ACAS.

Read the ‘Inclusive recruitment’ guide for employers on CIPD.

Read the 'Employer’s Guide to Inclusive Recruitment' on Skills Development Scotland (SDS).

Find out about recruiting and supporting older workers through the Centre for Aging Better.