Exploring what’s important to employees about workplace diversity

Study after study shows that diversity in the workforce pays off in myriad ways. Employees are more likely to feel invested in an organization when they’re confident their employer respects the value of varied perspectives. But what do employees want from their employers? What do they see employers doing right, and what are they getting wrong? What goals do employees want employers to set? And how effective are the actions employees see their employers taking?

What’s important to employees

In July, GoodHire, a background checking service, released results of a survey of employee thoughts on the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). The results reveal employees place a high value on an employer’s commitment to promoting diversity.

The survey showed that 81% of respondents would consider leaving a job if they doubted their employer’s DEI commitment. It also found that 87% of those in leadership positions would be tempted to leave if they didn’t see a commitment to DEI at work.

Many of the survey respondents (54%) said they would consider taking a pay cut to ensure a more diverse and inclusive workplace. The percentage was higher (66%) for people in leadership positions.

The survey showed that 72% of respondents felt that diverse workforces are more productive, and most (75% of men and 69% of women) agreed or strongly agreed that their employers were on board with a strong DEI hiring plan.

Also, most participating in the survey (75%) said that they had confidence that if harassment and discrimination occurred, their employer would handle the situation correctly.