Workplace diversity initiatives: more than ticking a box

There can be a disconnect between Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives implemented at organizations and the perceptions of DEI in the workplace by their employees. Our study sought to determine whether employee experiences within healthcare organizations were dependent on demographic compositions of employee populations. While we did not find a relationship between perceptions of workplace diversity and demographic heterogeneity, we did find a strong association between perceptions of diversity and employee engagement. This relationship suggests that token hiring of a diverse workforce will not improve perceptions of DEI in the workplace. Instead, organizations must also implement cultural policies and procedures to help all employees feel included, valued, and heard. Ultimately, performing well on measures of diversity and equity requires organizations to put in the effort to improve the work experience of their staff.