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Diversity Is Just the First Step. Inclusion Comes Next.
Article

Diversity Is Just the First Step. Inclusion Comes Next.


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7

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Today, more professional women are rising to the top than ever. About a third of managers in the United States are women, and 5% of Fortune 500 companies now have female CEOs. These numbers, of course, are still underwhelming. Companies may be hiring diverse candidates, but they aren’t taking the next step to build inclusive cultures. Boston Consulting Group experts examine how businesses can work on every level to make sure everyone’s voice is heard. The article could use more specific examples, but it’s still a helpful primer to prompt senior leaders to make workplace cultures more welcoming to all kinds of people. 

Summary

Companies have taken big strides in hiring more diverse teams. However, they often neglect to take the next step: ensuring that everyone is included in day-to-day operations. Factors including gender, race, sexual orientation and disability all play a role in making people feel less welcome. Because 95% of Fortune 500 CEOs are male, for instance, they set the tone for corporate cultures which can edge out women’s contributions. Unsurprisingly, 78% of white, non-LGBT men feel they can be their true selves professionally, while lesbians of color...

About the Authors

Frances Brooks Taplett, Matt Krentz, Justin Dean and Gabrielle Novacek are core members and company leaders at the Boston Consulting Group.