How to be authentic when building a diverse workplace

During Pride Month, the needs and experiences of LGBTQ+ employees take centre stage. 

In today's diverse and dynamic work environments, it is critical to create an inclusive atmosphere for ALL, where employees feel safe and comfortable being themselves. When individuals can bring their whole personality to the workplace, they are more engaged, productive and innovative. 

This article explores the importance of creating a safe space where employees can express their true identity and offers practical strategies for organisations to foster such an environment.

Recognising the value of authenticity

Accepting authenticity from employees goes beyond mere tolerance. It involves recognising and valuing the unique perspectives, backgrounds and experiences that each person brings. By recognising and celebrating diversity of identities within the workforce, organisations can harness the power of inclusion to drive growth and success.

Benefits of an authentic workplace

Increase engagement:

When employees feel comfortable being themselves, they are more likely to be engaged in their work. They are able to invest their energy and creativity in their tasks, leading to higher productivity and improved job satisfaction.

Improved collaboration: 

Authenticity promotes trust and psychological safety, which are essential for effective teamwork. When people are accepted and respected for who they are, they are more likely to collaborate openly, share ideas and support each other.

Innovation and creativity: 

A safe space that encourages diverse perspectives can inspire innovation and creativity. Staff from diverse backgrounds bring unique insights that can lead to new solutions, improved problem solving and increased adaptability to change.

Strategies for creating a safe space for authenticity

Cultivate a culture of inclusion: Organisations should establish and communicate a clear commitment to diversity and inclusion. This includes establishing policies that counter discrimination, harassment and prejudice and providing comprehensive diversity training for all employees.

Support and role model leadership: Leaders play a critical role in shaping the company's culture. It is essential that leaders model authentic behaviour, encourage open communication and create an environment where every voice is heard and valued.

Transparent communication channels: 

Create platforms and channels for open dialogue, such as regular team meetings, town hall events or anonymous suggestion boxes. Encourage employees to express their opinions, concerns and ideas without fear of judgement or retribution. Actively listen to their feedback and take appropriate action.

Staff groups or committees:

Establish committees in your offices that cater to different affinity groups within the organisation, such as LGBTQ+ groups, cultural or religious groups, or groups that support specific disabilities. These groups provide a supportive network and space for sharing experiences, raising awareness and advocating for inclusion. In addition, these groups are designed to help employees shape and influence the culture and work environment of their particular location.

Flexible policies and practices: 

Adopt policies that meet diverse needs, such as flexible working hours, dress codes that respect cultural and religious differences, or gender-neutral facilities. Emphasise that the organisation values work-life balance and understands the importance of individual well-being.

Ongoing education and training: 

Provide ongoing education and training opportunities on topics such as unconscious bias, inclusive language and intercultural competence. This helps staff develop awareness, empathy and understanding and promote a more inclusive and respectful environment.

Celebrate diversity: 

Celebrate and inform about important cultural, religious and social events throughout the year. This not only promotes understanding and appreciation, but also strengthens employees' sense of belonging. This includes celebrating Pride Month every June, e.g. by participating in Pride events, flying the rainbow flag in the office or supporting LGBTQ+ activism and organisations. Such actions strengthen LGBTQ+ employees' sense of belonging and signal that they are fully accepted and supported in the organisation.

Creating a safe space where employees can be themselves is not only morally right, but also crucial to the success of an organisation. By fostering an environment that supports authenticity and diversity, organisations can unleash the full potential of their employees, leading to increased collaboration, engagement and innovation. By implementing the strategies outlined in this article, organisations can develop a culture that values and respects each individual and provides the perfect breeding ground for their professional and personal success.

How we celebrate diversity and inclusion at Amoria Bond

Amoria Bond recognises that Diversity & Inclusion (D&I) is an ongoing process and we are 100% committed to this long-term goal. We are proud that our award-winning D&I strategy has been recognised both in our industry and beyond. While we know that perfection is unattainable, we remain true to our commitment to sustainable and meaningful change. We recognise our responsibility to take action and drive change both within our own organisation and within the recruitment industry, which we are passionate about, and the STEM sectors in which we operate.

Some of our actions include our recruiting practices, which aim to attract candidates from diverse backgrounds to ensure a broad range of perspectives and experiences. We have also established employee committees in our international offices that enable employees to help shape and influence the culture and work environment of their respective locations, including social and team-building events, CSR initiatives and much more.

In addition, our regular ASCEND sessions for all women across the business provide a supportive network and platform for sharing experiences and advocating for inclusion. Furthermore, we place great emphasis on continuous diversity and inclusion training for all our staff to increase awareness, empathy and understanding. These initiatives are integral to our commitment to creating a safe and inclusive space where everyone can develop their strengths and thrive.

Learn more about our various initiatives here.

Are you looking for a new position in a company where you can be yourself? Apply here now!