DEI: The Secret to Building High-Performing Inclusive Workplaces

Consumers are demanding more from brands when it comes to diversity, equity and inclusion. They are tired of the social polarization surrounding DEI and how these concepts are exploited to foster division and isolation. They support brands committed to creating a culture of respect and understanding where everyone feels valued, seen and heard in the workplace and the marketplace.

But too often, DEI initiatives in organizations go no further than high-level training and one-off workshops. DEI is more than bias training, however. It's about embedding DEI into all aspects of the organization, from hiring and promotion to product development and marketing.

Brands demonstrating their commitment to DEI will resonate with consumers, especially multicultural segments and younger generations. These consumers are increasingly looking to support brands that align with their values, and DEI has become one of their core values. Studies show that African American and Hispanic respondents, for example, are the most likely to support a company that makes a public commitment to diversity and inclusion initiatives. They do this by sharing support on social media, spending more money at stores, and going out of their way to shop in specific stores.

Removing limiting factors like bias and stereotype threat from organizational culture liberates employees to perform at their best, resulting in increased productivity, improved work outputs, and higher revenues.

In this episode of The New Mainstream podcast, Maria Morukian, CEO of MSM Global Consulting, discusses how to build high-performing, inclusive workplaces that better serve employees and consumers.

Meet Our Guest:  Maria Morukian

For more than 18 years, Maria has devoted herself to consulting, training and coaching leaders and organizations to facilitate culture change, with a specialization in diversity, equity, inclusion, intercultural competence, and innovation.

Maria’s passion lies in building bridges across identity differences, facilitating dialogue and coaching individuals to reflect on their individual cultural lenses that impact their beliefs and behaviors. She is sought after for her ability to connect on an individual level, as well as guide systemic change initiatives with measurable results.

Maria has partnered with a broad range of clients, including American University, the Association for Animal Welfare Advancement, National Institutes of Health, PBS Distribution, U.S. Department of State, and the World Bank. She has worked with leaders around the world, including Colombia, India, Kazakhstan, Kenya, Lebanon, Mexico, Thailand, and Tunisia.