While the current pandemic crisis may have slowed the Diversity and Inclusion efforts, according to a report released by LinkedIn, that trend may have reversed.
According to an article appearing on the HR Dive website, LinkedIn reports that the number of LinkedIn users having the title of “Head of Diversity” has increased by 107%. Similarly, those with the title of chief of diversity, diversity director, and diversity consultant, showed a significant increase than just a few years ago.
According to the LinkedIn report, diversity roles are up 71% over the past five years. Some HR professionals and business leaders cite the increased public awareness and outcry over systemic racism in the workplace and society at large. In response, many organizations have increased their D&I efforts and made it a priority.
Of the countries with the most inclusive focus on diversity according to gender, race, ethnicity, ability, age, and other groups, the United Kingdom boasts almost two times the number of D&I workers than other countries (197%). The UK, Australia, the United States, Ireland, and Canada are the top five countries in the world where organizations have made the push toward greater diversity within the workplace.
Though the COVID-19 pandemic has changed the face of how many organizations do business, HR Dive’s Sheryl Estrada advises that even during a crisis, D&I efforts shouldn’t be ignored. According to a report released by McKinsey & Company entitled “Diversity Wins: Inclusion Matters,” the business case for inclusion diversity (I&D) is now more critical than ever. Companies with a diverse workforce tend to outperform competitors.
“Companies whose leaders welcome diverse talents and include multiple perspectives are likely to emerge from the crisis stronger,” the report said.