Diversity matters!  A study of diversity in the workplace conducted over several years found that companies in the top quartile for gender diversity outperform their competitors by 15% and those in the top quartile for ethnic diversity outperform their competitors by 35%.  Diversity in the workplace increases creativity, fosters innovation, provides better consumer understanding, enriches brainstorming and leads to better decision making. 

There is Work to Do in Hampton Roads

In 2020, in partnership with SIR and Old Dominion University, the Chamber presented the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Performance Dashboard for The 757.  Only 42% of employers say their organization aligns diversity with business goals and objectives.  Today diversity, equity and inclusion is a business imperative.  Creating a diverse business climate will ensure Hampton Roads is a region where people of all backgrounds want to live work & play.

Top 10 Best Practices for Diversity & Inclusion in the Workplace

1. Make diversity and inclusion a priority of executive leadership.

2. Include diversity and inclusion in your company's strategic planning process, mission and vision.

3. Always require a diverse slate of candidates for every open position.

4. Include diversity in your new employee orientation.

5. Provide diversity awareness training for board, staff, volunteers and members.

6. Advertising or marketing.

7. Recruit thoughtfully.

8. Support matters.

9. Celebrate your workforce differences.

10. Once you have a diverse workforce, keep it.

Interested in Expanding Your Efforts in Diversity, Equity and Inclusion? Here are Some Resources to Get You Started

  Visit the DEI Dashboard