We know that feeling valued at work is a cornerstone of employee retention and inclusion: so who is more likely to feel valued?
A new report shows that a sense of inclusion in a workplace was more likely to be tied to someone’s level of seniority, as opposed to personal background or characteristics. The new ‘Transforming Enterprises’ report by the International Labor Organization shows that 92% of senior staff felt included, valued and respected compared to 76% of lower level employees.
Interestingly, the workforce in medium-sized multinational companies were also more likely to feel positive than those in small national enterprises. This comes as the report didn’t focus solely on groups within large companies in wealthy western countries — it encompassed staff of all demographics across lower-middle income and upper-middle income economies.
It’s important to consider the landscape and makeup of these senior management teams. “If inclusion remains a privilege experienced only by those at senior levels, enterprises risk missing out on…considerable benefits,” shares Manuela Tomei, the Director, ILO Conditions of Work and Equality Department. After all, “an equal, diverse and inclusive workplace is a key driver of resilience and recovery.”
How can we move this dial and influence the world around us? The report says that ensuring this change is sustainable and transformative, the business case for diversity and inclusion needs to be combined with policies, legislative frameworks and supportive enterprise values.
Read on for the full report here.