Cultivating Diversity: Navigating the Inclusive Landscape
In the evolving realm of business, the term “inclusivity” has transcended from a mere value to a structured imperative. This fundamental shift reflects the realization that embracing diversity is not just a nicety but a strategic necessity.
A Glimpse into INNOVAMEY’s Vision: A Conversation with ONIRO Agency
As part of a Journey to discover new values to inspire businesses, ONIRO’s founder – Francesco Arighetti, interviewed our founder, Aram Mbow, on November 2023, in a captivating interview to delve into the essence of our vision towards a more inclusive world.
UNDERSTANDING INCLUSIVITY
“WHAT does it mean, exactly, to be inclusive?”
At its core, inclusivity extends beyond mere acceptance; it is the genuine promotion of participation from individuals of diverse backgrounds, perspectives, and characteristics. The essence lies in respecting and valuing differences, transforming them into assets that enrich the fabric of our reality. The beauty of inclusion lies not only in the representation of diversity but in the collective power it holds to overcome the most significant challenges of our generation.
Despite its significance, inclusivity remains elusive. Despite its significance, inclusivity remains elusive. The numbers paint a stark reality, especially for women, who continue to be underrepresented in leadership roles, a testament to cultural challenges and deeply ingrained stereotypes. Only 3% of women hold CEO positions, constituting a mere 20% of total executives in Italy. The gender pay gap persists, with women earning almost €8,000 less, reflecting a 9.6% discrepancy. However, the struggle for inclusivity extends beyond gender, encompassing ethnicity, age, sexual orientation, abilities, and social classes. Often, these dimensions intersect, creating a web of challenges that particularly affect minority groups.
But WHY does inclusivity prove to be so challenging?
Fundamentally, it demands effort from those currently unaffected by the existing norms. Inclusivity requires the acknowledgment of privilege. Those who enjoy certain privileges may not find an immediate incentive to advocate for change. Moreover, addressing inclusivity requires confronting our biases, a task that necessitates introspection and a willingness to challenge our ingrained preferences.
To manage these challenges effectively, investments in structured responses are essential. Inclusivity demands authenticity, going beyond mere token gestures and performative actions. As with any aspect of sustainability, what is communicated, or more importantly, what is not, plays a pivotal role. While many companies have made efforts to be seen as inclusive, the true test lies in the consistency of these values within the organizational culture.
Inclusivity for Business Growth
What are the benefits of Inclusivity?
Inclusivity is not merely a moral imperative; it is a strategic advantage for businesses. Fostering a work environment that celebrates diversity of thought and experiences contributes to more effective problem-solving, enhances corporate reputation, and attracts high-quality talent. This awareness is yet to reach its full potential in Italy, with only half of the population believing that diversity and inclusion have a direct impact on business, emphasizing a significant awareness gap.
The advantages of embracing inclusivity extend beyond business metrics. Improved mental health, increased innovation, and a sense of belonging are among the profound societal benefits that companies can contribute to by prioritizing diversity and inclusion.
THE ROAD AHEAD FOR ITALIAN COMPANIES
While many Italian companies are gradually recognizing the importance of inclusivity, there is still ample room for improvement. Only six out of ten companies have defined a comprehensive inclusivity plan, with two out of ten deeming it unimportant. A notable divide between large and small enterprises persists, impacting biases, training initiatives, cultural shifts, and opportunities.
EMBRACING A UNIQUE PERSPECTIVE
In the face of every challenge, embracing diverse backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives is pivotal. It is through these unique viewpoints that we gain a profound understanding of the world, a perspective essential for tackling the challenges of our generation. Each individual, armed with their distinct background, contributes to the diverse mosaic that holds the key to resolving the complexities of our time.