As a hetrosexual, white male with no outward signs of a disability, I am very aware that I have to put up with very little prejudice.
However, as a husband, father and friend, I see the impact of prejudice on some of those closest to me. To me, the moral argument for inclusion is so obvious it shouldn't need any debate.
What I really like about this research however, is that it shows that inclusion also benefits everyone. Those organisations that are most diverse perform better. They understand their customers better, and have a broader range of thinking that supports innovation and creativity.
The more we can talk about diversity in the workplace, the more we can understand each other - including our friends, family and customers. Not only will our organisations be greater, then so will society. If we need an organisation purpose, then a better society is the winner every time.
Our latest research finds that companies in the top quartile for gender or racial and ethnic diversity are more likely to have financial returns above their national industry medians. Companies in the bottom quartile in these dimensions are statistically less likely to achieve above-average returns.
