The five things underrepresented workers want from work
As an employer, it is essential to comprehend and consider the specific needs of your underrepresented employees. Moreover, in today's increasingly diverse workplace, successful teamwork needs to understand the wants and needs of all employees. But what do underrepresented workers desire from their employment? In this post, we examine the shared priorities of underrepresented employees to create better and more equitable workplaces. Continue reading to learn how you can satisfy the expectations of the entire workforce!
Purpose and Meaning in Work – Underrepresented workers often desire work that makes a meaningful contribution to society or their community
As societal awareness of social injustice increases, underrepresented workers seek meaningful work. They want to feel as though they are contributing to the greater good of society or their local community. This desire for meaningful work transcends monetary compensation; it is about making a difference and feeling fulfilled in their career. Unfortunately, not all employment opportunities provide this sense of purpose, leaving these employees feeling undervalued and unfulfilled. Employers must recognize the significance of meaningful work and strive to provide opportunities that align with the values and interests of their employees. Doing so can retain their workforce and cultivate a more engaged and motivated team.
Career Development Opportunities – Many underrepresented workers are eager for professional growth and development opportunities
Opportunities for career advancement are essential for all employees, but they can be especially beneficial for those underrepresented in their fields. These employees are frequently eager to learn and advance their careers but may face unique obstacles. Thankfully, numerous resources are available to assist underrepresented workers in reaching their full potential. From mentorship programs to internships and training opportunities, there are multiple ways for workers to acquire the skills and knowledge necessary for career success. There is no ceiling on what underrepresented workers can accomplish with the proper assistance and direction.
Flexible Work Schedules – The ability to create flexible work schedules to accommodate family, caregiving, or other needs is essential to many underrepresented employees
Flexible work schedules have become popular among employees, especially those underrepresented in the labor force. These schedules offer the much-needed flexibility to balance work and personal obligations, such as caring for family or pursuing personal pursuits. In addition, due to technological advancements, employees can now work from home or outside of traditional work hours, making it easier for individuals with diverse needs to fulfill their job responsibilities. As a result, employers prioritizing flexible work schedules are further likely to attract and retain diverse talent, leading to a more productive and diverse team.
Fair Pay – Fair compensation concerning job market standards and the value of an employee's skill set is a priority for many underrepresented employees
Fair compensation is fundamental to any workplace and is particularly vital for underrepresented employees. Companies need to compensate their employees fairly based on market standards and the value of their skill set to attract and retain exceptional talent. This contributes to a more diverse and inclusive workplace and ensures employees are motivated and content with their pay. In addition, by prioritizing equitable compensation, businesses can demonstrate that they value their employees and are committed to fostering a fair workplace. This can ultimately lead to increased productivity, improved morale, and a more robust company culture.
Respectful Treatment from Managers and Coworkers– Respectful treatment from managers and coworkers is critical for improving morale and fostering successful working relationships between colleagues
Fair compensation is fundamental to any workplace and is particularly vital for underrepresented employees. Companies need to compensate their employees somewhat based on market standards and the value of their skill set to attract and retain exceptional talent. This contributes to a more diverse and inclusive workplace and ensures employees are motivated and content with their pay. In addition, by prioritizing equitable compensation, businesses can demonstrate that they value their employees and are committed to fostering a fair workplace. This can ultimately lead to increased productivity, improved morale, and a more robust company culture.
Diverse Representation in Leadership Roles – Seeing diverse representation in leadership roles can give underrepresented employees a sense of being part of the workplace culture
In today's workplaces, diverse representation in leadership roles is becoming increasingly important. The presence of leaders from underrepresented groups can significantly impact the sense of inclusion and belonging among employees. Companies must make concerted efforts to diversify their leadership teams to foster an environment conducive to creativity, innovation, and empathy for coworkers of all backgrounds. In addition, having leaders who reflect the workforce's diversity can improve the company's reputation and increase customer loyalty. To achieve a truly inclusive workplace, it is necessary to prioritize diverse leadership representation.
Here are some things that many underrepresented workers may want from work:
Inclusion and belonging: Underrepresented workers want to feel that their contributions are valued and belong in the workplace. This includes feeling as though their opinions and ideas are heard and valued.
Opportunities for growth and advancement: Historically, many underrepresented workers have faced career advancement barriers. Therefore, they frequently value professional growth and development opportunities within the organization.
Fair and equitable treatment: Underrepresented workers desire fair and honest treatment in all aspects of their employment, including hiring, promotion, compensation, and performance evaluations. This includes equal pay for equal work and protection from discrimination and harassment.
Flexibility and work-life balance: Many underrepresented workers face unique challenges and responsibilities outside the workplace, such as caregiving or identity-based discrimination. Therefore, they may value workplace policies that allow flexible schedules, remote work, or other accommodations that assist them in balancing their professional and personal lives.
Meaningful work: As with all employees, underrepresented workers want to feel that their work contributes to the greater good. They may be drawn to organizations with a strong social or environmental mission, or that place a premium on positively impacting society.
In terms of job satisfaction, underrepresented workers have a unique set of wants and needs, including meaningful purpose, career development opportunities, flexible work schedules, fair pay, respectful treatment from coworkers and managers, and adequate diversity representation in leadership roles. Attending to the needs of underrepresented employees is essential for organizations seeking to cultivate an inclusive workplace in which everyone thrives. Therefore, organizations must prioritize the development of inclusive policies and practices that value the contributions of all employees. Employers can only ensure a successful working experience for all employees and maintain a competitive edge in their respective industries by cultivating an inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued.
Images courtesy of Maxime Bhm @maximebhm
About Jim Woods
Jim Woods is the President and CEO of the Woods Kovalova group. He is a diversity, equity and inclusion expert with over 20 years of experience in the field. He has worked with organizations of all sizes, from small non-profits to large Fortune 500 companies, helping them to create more inclusive and equitable workplaces.