Promoting and supporting a culture of inclusivity and diversity in the workplace is an important aspect of good people management – it’s about valuing and respecting everyone in the organisation as an individual. To reap the benefits of a diverse workforce it’s vital to have an inclusive environment where everyone feels able to participate and achieve their potential irrespective of gender, sexual orientation, race, physical or mental disabilities.
While opportunities to discuss diversity and inclusion at work can and should be offered throughout the year, Pride Month is a great time to raise awareness and deliver educational sessions because people are paying closer attention.
Certified a Great Place to Work for six years, LotusWorks actively participate in eliminating discrimination and promoting a culture of inclusivity to its global teams. As part of its commitment to championing inclusion and diversity, the company has been engaging various organisations and foundations that support the fight against various types of inequality, such as discrimination based on sexual orientation and mental health. These partnership learning sessions with LGBT Ireland and VHI Wellness give employees the opportunity to stop, pause and learn how each individual can play a part in curating a better work environment for everyone every day.
“To regularly work on strengthening relationships within the team, we hold a variety of events to increase team cohesion and establish friendly ties. We’re ensuring that employees realise they can influence company culture and play a part in supporting wellness to their wider teams. As well as designing appropriate and fair people practices, it’s important to create open and inclusive workplace cultures in which everyone feels valued, respects colleagues, and where their contribution is recognised.” comments Richard Kilfeather, Senior HR Manager, LotusWorks.
In celebration of Pride Month, LotusWorks welcomed guest speaker James O’Hagan, LGBT Champions Programme Manager of LGBT Ireland to host a webinar for all employees. Discussing terminology, how to be an ally in the workplace, the history of pride month and being LGBTQ+ in the workplace, James’ educational talk sparked conversations among employees and created an awareness of how to be an ally to colleagues making them feel included and welcomed in any environment.
With a workforce made up of 80% males, LotusWorks understand the importance of vocalising and promoting men’s health and making sure conversations are facilitated. The company continuously encourages ‘walk and talks’, GP screening and check-ups as part of wellbeing initiatives and benefits. This week, LotusWorks welcomed John Maguire MIACP MICISF Counsellor/Trauma Informed Psychotherapist to host an educational session and discuss ‘Men and Men’s Health’.
Commenting on the actions the company is taking to enhance employee experience at LotusWorks, Richard said: “Investing in a people-first culture is central to everything we do at LotusWorks. People are at the heart of our business. LotusWorks is an equal opportunities employer, and our focus remains that everyone feels equally involved in and supported in all areas of the workplace.”
A diverse and inclusive workplace establishes a sense of connection among employees. When employees feel more connected engagement, productivity, and work quality increases. As a result, companies that adopt diversity and inclusion policies see positive results in innovation, decision-making and business results.
For more information about life at LotusWorks, check out our employee stories