Hiring a diverse group of people is optional for employers in Canada. However, plenty of governments all over the world have started making it mandatory. In addition to this being a step in ensuring employment for people who might not be considered due to prejudice, companies also tend to go for diversity to represent their target customers. However, a diverse workplace benefits the company and the community beyond checking off a list.
5 Benefits Of Diversity in the office
Increase in creativity
Growing up in a different country or culture can give people a different perspective from Canadian citizens. When people with such diverse journeys come together to brainstorm, it can create some unique ideas and efficient problem-solving.
One study suggests a diverse group of people can solve problems faster and more efficiently than a group of people with high intelligence.
More Sales
One research predicts a 3 to 9% increase in sales for a company for every 1% increase in diversity. In addition, a company with diverse employees has a higher chance of succeeding in the long run than those with a less diverse workforce.
The innovative minds work together to create amazing products and improve performance in a way people restricted by the same backgrounds can’t. This leads to a natural increase in sales and high profit.
Low Turnover Rate
Companies open to a diverse workforce show employees they are accepting. Not only do marginalized people feel happy and satisfied with the company, ready to work there for years, but accepting non-marginalized folks also feel better about working in an open environment.
The fewer employees leave, the fewer companies have to worry about recruiting every year and spending a new budget on it. Not to mention they get to retain talented people.
Reach local and international market
21.5% of the Canadian population consists of immigrants.
When you hire a diverse group of people, your employees serve as a reflection of the community. The local people tend to appreciate this effort. Your employees naturally understand the need of their people, and this is visible in how the brand communicates with its customers.
Communities recommend your brand, leading to a wider reach.
Immigrants also have massive knowledge about their home country. So if you plan on setting up a base in a new country, you can do so through your talent instead of outsourcing.
Enhancing Goodwill
An accepting business is perceived as socially responsible and relatable by the community. This naturally increases the reputation of the business. Your brand will have a positive reception in the press, and people might recommend your product solely because of the brand’s inclusive message.
Final Thoughts
While a diverse workplace benefits business from a business perspective, it is also a natural, human thing to do. If you truly want your business to connect with your customers, you must consider things from their perspective. You can’t do that without a workforce that might have the same experience as your diverse customers.
About the Author
BCjobs.ca is Western Canada’s largest job board, with the majority of the jobs coming from Vancouver. For nearly 20 years, BC Jobs has connected job candidates with companies looking to add talent to their teams. Here at BCJobs, we understand that looking for a job is difficult. To support our candidates, we recently launched a podcast to help you stand out during your job application. Listen to weekly episodes on our podcast to hear what recruiters are thinking and what companies look for when considering their next hire.
