Here Are 7 Activities To Foster Diversity And Inclusion In Your Workplace

You must’ve often heard the terms “diversity” or “inclusion” in your workplace or at an HR meeting. Well, establishing a culture where everyone feels appreciated, respected, and empowered is more important than simply checking boxes for a formal procedure when it comes to establishing a diverse and inclusive workplace. However, how do you actually value diversity in your everyday workplace and go above and beyond policy? Fun, interesting activities that unite people and rejoice in our differences hold the key. Employees are more likely to be enthusiastic, productive, and creative when they feel valued and included. In fact, studies have shown that diverse teams perform better, are more creative, and drive greater business success.

It’s critical for HR specialists and company executives to provide chances for workers to engage more deeply. This entails introducing activities that highlight the diverse backgrounds and opinions in addition to standard team-building exercises. In addition to being entertaining, these activities can teach people new things and help them feel like they belong. Are you prepared to foster a more diverse workplace? Continue reading!

Cultural Potluck Lunch

Host a cultural potluck lunch where employees bring dishes from their own cultural backgrounds to share with colleagues. This not only celebrates diversity in food but also encourages sharing of traditions and stories.

According to a 2023 survey by Deloitte, 61% of employees believe that sharing meals with colleagues helps build strong relationships and improves teamwork. Embracing different cuisines fosters a sense of belonging and appreciation for cultural diversity within your team.

How to get started:

• Plan a date and send out invitations well in advance.
• Create a sign-up sheet for dishes to ensure a variety of cuisines.
• Encourage employees to share the stories and significance behind their dishes.
• Set up a space where employees can present their dishes and talk about their cultural significance.

Bias Awareness Training

You can conduct workshops or training sessions which focus on recognising and removing unconscious biases in the workplace. These sessions can include interactive exercises and case studies to show how biases can impact decision-making.

Korn Ferry states, “Unconscious bias training addresses how our minds have been conditioned to act when we counter people who we perceive as different from us”. It indicates that unconscious bias training can lead to a decrease in biassed behaviour among employees. By raising awareness and providing tools to address biases, you create a more equitable and inclusive work environment.

How to get started:

• Partner with a diversity and inclusion consultant or use reputable online resources.
• Schedule regular training sessions and make them a part of the onboarding process.
• Follow up with continuous learning opportunities and open discussions about bias and inclusion.

Employee Resource Groups (ERGs)

Establish Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) based on various dimensions of diversity, such as ethnicity, gender, or LGBTQ+ identities. These groups provide a platform for employees to connect, share experiences, and advocate for inclusive practices.

A study by McKinsey found that companies with active ERGs reported higher employee satisfaction and retention rates. ERGs not only support diverse talent but also contribute to innovation and better decision-making by incorporating diverse perspectives.

How to get started:

• Identify potential leaders within your organisation to spearhead the formation of ERGs.
• Provide resources and support for these groups, such as meeting spaces and a budget for activities.
• Encourage ERGs to collaborate on projects and initiatives that promote inclusion and diversity within the workplace.

Diversity Bingo

Make a bingo card with a diversity theme, and use squares to symbolise various facets of diversity, like the languages that people speak, their hobbies, or their cultural customs. Workers search for coworkers who fit the descriptions on their bingo cards by interacting with one another.

Games such as Diversity Bingo help break down barriers and promote cross-cultural understanding by encouraging meaningful interactions beyond job roles. They promote a feeling of unity and respect for each team member’s distinct background.

How to get started:

• Design bingo cards that reflect various aspects of diversity relevant to your workplace.
• Organise a kickoff event to explain the game and encourage participation.
• Offer small prizes or incentives for completing bingo cards to increase engagement.

Mentorship Circles

Form mentorship circles where employees from diverse backgrounds can connect with mentors or peers for guidance, support, and career development. These circles can focus on specific topics like leadership, career growth, or cultural integration.

Research published in Forbes shows that employees in mentorship programmes are more likely to stay at their companies and feel valued. Mentorship circles provide opportunities for skill-building, networking, and building inclusive leadership capabilities across your organisation.

How to get started:

• Identify mentors and mentees interested in participating and match them based on interests and goals.
• Set up regular meetings and provide discussion guides to help facilitate meaningful conversations.
• Celebrate successes and milestones within the mentorship circles to maintain motivation and engagement.

Inclusive Book Club

Set up an inclusive book club where team members can read and talk about publications on diversity, equity, and inclusion. Change up your book choices to include a variety of viewpoints and experiences.

Employee empathy and understanding of other identities and experiences can grow as a result of reading materials on diversity and inclusion. It fosters meaningful dialogue and continuous learning at work.

How to get started:

• Choose a diverse selection of books and resources that address various aspects of diversity and inclusion.
• Schedule regular meetings for discussions and reflections on the readings.
• Encourage employees to suggest books and articles, ensuring a wide range of perspectives.

Volunteer Together For Diversity Causes

Plan volunteer opportunities with charities or local organisations that prioritise inclusion, equity, and diversity. This could include raising money for social justice causes, supporting educational programmes, or taking part in community events.

Volunteering in the community strengthens your business commitment to inclusivity and social responsibility. It gives employees the opportunity to have a positive impact outside of work while also strengthening team bonds through shared experiences.

How to get started:

• Identify local organisations and causes that align with your company’s values and diversity goals.
• Coordinate volunteer events and encourage employee participation.
• Recognise and celebrate the contributions of employees who volunteer, reinforcing the importance of these activities.

Value Diversity, Foster Inclusion

Maintaining a culture where everyone feels appreciated and respected is essential to building a diverse and inclusive workplace. By putting these activities into practice, you foster a sense of belonging and teamwork among your team members in addition to promoting diversity. Remember that the path to inclusivity starts with little steps and a group effort to recognise and value the diverse backgrounds and opinions present in your company.

At Mentoria, we understand the importance of diversity and inclusion in driving organisational success. Our tailored workshops empower employees to embrace diversity, develop inclusive leadership skills, and foster a culture of belonging and honing 21st century skills. Contact us today to learn how Mentoria can support your diversity and inclusion initiatives and help your workplace thrive.