9 Kinds of Diversity You Might Not Have Thought About

The case for diversity and equity in the workplace usually focuses on gender and race. But when you really think about it, there are many other kinds of diversity that need to be taken into account. Look at your teams and see if they consist of any of the following nine attributes that can contribute to unqualified success.

1. Cognitive diversity
   We’re all unique individuals with diverse ways of thinking about issues and solving problems. Teams that include varied cognitive styles are able to tackle projects from multiple perspectives. that ultimately merge to deliver more innovative solutions. Many organizations unintentionally recruit employees who think and express themselves in a like-minded manner. To benefit from cognitive diversity it’s important to seek employees outside of your corporate cookie cutter mold.
2. Socioeconomic diversity
   People from varied social and economic backgrounds can provide insights into different consumer tastes and preferences which can be invaluable in tailoring products and services for the wider marketplace. If everyone is from the same socioeconomic group it’s easy to lose sight of the values and desires of other groups and, for instance, not take into account price sensitivity or the kind of language used in promotional materials.
3. Generational diversity
   You might want to call this life experience diversity! Having a mix of Baby Boomers, Gen X, Millennials, and GenZers in the workforce guarantees the broadest possible life and work experiences and outlooks. For example, Gen Z can teach Baby Boomers about upcoming technology. Conversely, Baby Boomers can impart decades-old industry knowledge to the younger generations. The fusion of these mindsets and skills can lead to imaginative and practical results. A multigenerational workforce is beneficial for an organization.
4. Geographic diversity
   Involving team members from different geographic regions, not only from within the country but also internationally, is essential for companies seeking to expand their reach. Different viewpoints can uncover unique solutions that might not be apparent in a more homogenous group. Geographically diverse employees can provide valuable insights into local markets, cultures, and consumer behaviors to help companies tailor their products, services, and marketing strategies to better meet the needs of customers across different regions.
5. Communication diversity
   Many of us have a preference in the way we communicate—either visually, verbally, or in written forms. It’s essential to bear that in mind when communicating both internally and to customers. Embrace how others like to receive information and your communication skills will improve immeasurably. Teams with varied communication styles can ensure that messaging is more inclusive and effective. Team collaboration is enhanced when all members feel heard and can contribute effectively, regardless of whether they prefer direct or indirect communication, face-to-face meetings, or digital correspondence.
6. Personality diversity
   Incorporating a mix of personality types ensures a balance of different workstyles and interpersonal dynamics, which can boost team collaboration and productivity. For instance, where introverts may excel in deep thinking and concentration, extroverts may shine in networking and team motivation. A mix of personality types can lead to more creative and innovative solutions. Out-of-the-box thinking is more likely to occur when diverse personalities work on a project together.
7. Industry diversity
   It might seem counter-intuitive to hire professionals from unrelated industry backgrounds but organizations often risk becoming echo chambers, where similar ideas and approaches are continuously recycled without question. Hiring professionals from other industries not only introduces new viewpoints but also challenges the status quo, preventing stagnation and promoting a culture of continuous improvement and questioning. Individuals from different industries bring with them unique problem-solving techniques, technologies, and methodologies that may be unknown in their new environment. This cross-pollination of ideas can spark breakthroughs, as practices considered standard in one industry might be revolutionary in another.
8. Cultural diversity
   While many people enjoy learning about other cultures, it’s an entirely different experience to work with people who come from different cultures. Not only can this bring a wealth of learning opportunities but also create a workforce that is better equipped to understand and meet the needs of a diverse customer base. Employees who share or understand customers’ cultural backgrounds can provide more personalized service, enhancing customer satisfaction and loyalty. A workplace that values cultural diversity is likely to be more inclusive and equitable, fostering an environment where all employees feel valued and respected.
9. Disability diversity
   While 90% of companies maintain that diversity is a priority, the reality is that a tiny fraction regards hiring people with disabilities as being part of their diversity initiatives. Employees with physical and mental disabilities can be just as productive as those without any. In fact, they can contribute creative ideas and bring disruptive change to your company.

When you’re hiring and promoting it’s important to intentionally seek and build a team of people with diverse backgrounds and experiences. Companies can reinforce diversity by providing diversity awareness training and working on inclusion and equity in the workplace. The result is that organizations that invest in diversity efforts are more profitable, experience more engaged employees, and have a lower turnover rate. The implementation of each of these nine diversity aspects outlined above, in addition to gender and race, contribute to overall business success.

Written by Jason Richmond.