DEI stands for diversity, equity, and inclusion, and it refers to policies and procedures that encourage representation and participation of people from diverse backgrounds in the workplace. Diversity refers to the range of individuals within a team from different backgrounds, taking into account ethnicity, gender, age, and other factors. Equity refers to ensuring that everyone has equal opportunities and fair treatment. Inclusion refers to creating a space where everyone feels respected, valued, safe, and supported in their individuality.

DEI is important for company culture because it can boost creativity and innovation, improve employee retention, and create an environment that empowers employees. Companies that are intent on recruiting a diverse workforce must also strive to develop a sufficiently inclusive culture, such that all employees feel their voices will be heard. To foster an inclusive workplace, companies can ensure that diverse talent is well-represented, strengthen leadership accountability and capabilities, be fair and transparent, promote openness and tackle microaggressions, bias, and discrimination, and foster belonging through unequivocal support for all the ways diversity manifests.

DEI is valuable because diversity can bring a tremendous amount of value to organizations, and when DEI practices are implemented, team members feel more recognized and accepted for the different aspects of their individuality. Clear, company-wide communication of DEI initiatives is crucial to ensuring practices are supported at every level of the organization, and real and impactful change is not possible unless a clear strategy has been developed, communicated, and implemented.