“No culture can live, if it attempts to be exclusive.” – Mahatma Gandhi”
Mahatma Gandhi’s quote beautifully highlights the importance of embracing and promoting cultural diversity and inclusion. However, embracing diversity isn't just a matter of ticking off boxes, it's about creating a truly inclusive and welcoming environment that allows everyone to feel valued and heard.
According to a report by Glassdoor, 67% of people looking for a job think that diversity in the workplace is important, and more than 50% of people who already have jobs want their workplace to do more to improve diversity.
Unfortunately, the IT industry is consistently criticized for its lack of diversity. Women and underrepresented groups are significantly absent in the industry. This lack of diversity has led to a homogenous industry that does not fully represent the diverse needs of users.
Diversity is about creating a work environment that embraces the differences among employees. It should be a place where individuals feel comfortable expressing themselves, where their perspectives are heard and considered, and where they experience a sense of belonging and respect for their unique contributions.
How Diversity and Inclusion Benefits IT Companies
- Increases the opportunity to attract and retain top talent
- Improves employee engagement and productivity
- Promotes a positive brand image that appeals to a wider range of customers
- Stimulate creativity
- Promotes innovation
- Positions a business for success and profitability
Thankfully, at V-Soft Consulting, we work with some wonderful people who are actively taking steps to support diversity and inclusion within our company. In fact, our HR Director, Sherry Powers plays a crucial role in ensuring that we stay on the right track and consistently practice these principles.
According to Powers, “Every decision must focus on building a culture where everyone belongs.” V-Soft, is dedicated in taking several initiatives to implement diversity, inclusion and a friendly atmosphere in the workplace across the globe.
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Raising awareness of traditions celebrated by our diverse workforce, such as Ramadan and Passover.
- Promoting health & wellness through the creation of “V-Soft Globe-Trotters”. This initiative is accessible to employees worldwide, providing an opportunity for individuals to come together and prioritize their health and work relationships.
- V-Soft is a woman-owned minority company. Identifying opportunities for women to build relationships, network and pursue heightened career opportunities lives within the company. Encouraging team members to attend the Women@Work2023 conference during business hours is just one recent example of this aspect of the V-Soft culture. V-Soft is also developing leadership programs to support career growth for women leaders and C-levels.
The IT industry is dynamic and continuously evolving, which requires an inclusive workforce to meet the needs of a diverse customer base. Therefore, it becomes our responsibility to implement the policies, methods, and cultures in our company that promotes and fosters an inclusive environment.
