The importance of employee inclusion: lessons for HR managers

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide an overview of the phenomenon, or the lack thereof, of building a culturally inclusive organization, specifically suggesting this paper will offer tips for human resources (“HR”) practitioners in their quest to understand and enhance inclusivity.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper is written for practitioners, focusing on ways to foster employee inclusiveness through personal awareness. It includes business and professional rationales for HR practitioners recognizing the need for and the factors impeding employee inclusiveness in the workplace.

Findings

Organizations are facing an increasingly dynamic environment in which they must interact with and, possibly, rapidly respond to changes. As a competition, both domestically and globally, increases progressive organizations recognize ways to retain and grow their talent pool. Not having a robust understanding of diversity, generally and cultural diversity, specifically, can lead to a less inclusive work environment.

Originality/value

This paper discusses the multifaceted nature of diversity and the need to understand cultural diversity. Particularly how HR practitioners can be a catalyst for organizational change. This paper then proposes practical steps for HR professionals to help improve cultural inclusiveness in their workplaces.

Citation

Norman, M.V. and Johnson, K.M. (2022), "The importance of employee inclusion: lessons for HR managers", Strategic HR Review, Vol. 21 No. 1, pp. 20-24. https://doi.org/10.1108/SHR-11-2021-0052