Fostering diversity in the workplace is a key factor in creating an inclusive work environment for employees. An inclusive work environment allows employers to benefit from varied perspectives on how to address certain challenges and achieve success. “Diversity” has a broad meaning, going beyond just gender and race. The unique attributes that individuals have all play a part in diversity.
What is Diversity?
Diversity refers to the unique characteristics of individuals that represent their race, national origin, ethnicity, gender, ability, sexual preference, age, interests, background, levels of educational achievement, socioeconomic statuses, and more. Diversity goes beyond how an individual identifies him or herself, but also how others in the workplace perceive them. Thus, it is essential that employers educate employees on cultural differences and similarities between one another without assigning them a value.
Diversity and Compliance in Employment Law
The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) has created laws and guidelines that businesses must follow. The Civil Rights Act, Equal Pay Act, the Age Discrimination in Employment Act, the Americans with Disabilities Act, and the Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act are only a few examples of legislation used to determine regulations.
Affirmative action laws in Arizona require employers to make proactive efforts to represent individuals from certain protected classes in the workplace at levels comparable to those for unprotected groups. The Arizona Civil Rights Act prohibits employment practices that discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, age, disability, or national origin.
Compliance refers to ensuring that equal opportunity in all phases of employment, from recruiting and hiring to training and terminating. Employers are encouraged to implement strong equal employment opportunity policies within their company in order to explain the conduct that is prohibited.
A strong policy within a company will set the standard and expectations that employers have for their employees.
Fostering Diverse Work Environments
Not only should employers be aware of federal and state laws regarding diversity due to concerns about the consequences, but also because of the positive business opportunities that stem from a diverse atmosphere. By fostering a culture of diversity, employers expand their talent pool and bring more creativity and innovation into their business. Employers will see an increase in employee morale and teamwork through inclusivity.
Contact Us
If you are an employer looking to boost employee morale and expand your business opportunities, contact Counxel Legal Firm! We would love to help you and your company. Contact us at (480) 744-6621 or at request@counxel.com. Don’t forget to check out the good things that others are saying about the services they received from Timothy Coons on Google.
This article is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice for your specific situation. Use of and access to this article does not create an attorney-client relationship between you and Counxel Legal Firm. Please contact request@counxel.com or (480) 744-6621 to request specific information for your situation.
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