What is diversity and inclusion?

We're talking about diversity and inclusion (D&I) like never before - in society and in business.

This happens for several reasons: from the realization that the search for talent has never been greater. Another example is that, in order to create better and broader employment, the business case has never been clearer and from a perspective of sustainability and with SDG No. 5 as leverage. 

Although D&I (diversity and inclusion) have become some of the most talked about concepts in organisations over time, this does not mean that they have become more digestible. We are therefore glad that you landed on this page, because with new or complex concepts it is important to start with the basics.

This guide is a good stepping stone to better understanding the complexity of the concept of diversity, and not least , inclusion

Let's start by defining what D&I actually is and finish with insights on the importance of having diversity and inclusion in the workplace. 

What does diversity mean in the workplace? 

Diversity in the workplace means that an organisation has a diverse workforce, reflecting for example the surrounding community in which it exists and operates.

However, determining what actually makes a workplace diverse is not straightforward. 

Diversity incorporates all the elements that make us unique from each other as human beings, and although there are infinite differences among people, diversity is most often defined in terms of a few social categories, such as gender, race, age, sexuality and disability. Read more about the nuances of diversity.

In Denmark, the Discrimination Actenforces that there must be no direct or indirect discrimination in the labour market on grounds of race, colour, religion or belief, political view, sexual orientation, age, disability or national, social or ethnic origin.

Although there are several visible and invisible factors that make individuals different from each other than those defined in the Danish Discrimination Act, these broad categories can help companies identify a lack of diversity in the workplace. They can be used to create measurable measurements for the company's diversity – measurements that can lead to concrete goals aimed at increasing diversity in the workplace.

What does inclusion mean in the workplace? 

Although often used interchangeably with diversity, inclusion is a concept in itself. Indeed, inclusion is not about how diverse a workplace is, but about whether individuals are treated fairly and respectfully, have equal access to opportunities, resources and psychological safety, enabling everyone to contribute fully to the success of the organisation.

Diversity vs. inclusion

Diversity refers to the traits and characteristics that make people unique, while inclusion refers to the behaviours and social norms that help employees feel welcome and part of the community.

Inclusion is not only essential for diversity efforts to succeed, but creating an inclusive culture is also beneficial for employee well-being and productivity.

Without inclusion, diversity is useless, superficial and ultimately damaging - and the company does not get the benefits of diversity.

Why are diversity and inclusion important to your workplace? 

D&I is complex and there are many aspects to consider when it comes to creating a working environment characterised by both diversity and inclusion.

But when it comes to the real benefits of diversity and inclusion for the workplace, the answers are much simpler.

However, it is important that the company finds its own arguments and relevance for employees, management and in terms of. organisation's goals and values. We are happy to help you with this!


5 benefits of having diversity and inclusion in the workplace


Apart from being a clear social, political, ethical and moral responsibility, there are some clear benefits to promoting diversity and inclusion in the workplace.

We've listed five of the most well-documented benefits - benefits that all benefit the bottom line!


Advantage 1 - Diversity and inclusion promote innovation

Advantage 2 - Diversity and inclusion attract and retain labour

Advantage 3 - Diversity and inclusion affect employee and customer satisfaction

Advantage 4 - Diversity and inclusion open up new markets and customer groups

Advantage 5 - Diversity and inclusion affect both efficiency and quality

These benefits are supported by research from McKinsey, BCG and others.

If you would like to promote D&I in your workplace, don't hesitate to contact us here!

Nikoline Nybo
Consultant

BA Anthropology and Chaos Pilot.


Experience in cultural analysis and anthropological methodology, project management and process design, organizational development and facilitation.

Louise Marie Genefke
Consultant

Cand. mag. Marketing & Communication, MA Management and External Lecturer AU.

Experience with management, talent and organizational development, facilitation and Employer Branding.