Diversity and inclusion: A competitive advantage – best practices for international professional services

Why is diversity and inclusion important?

1. Creativity and innovation: Diverse teams bring different perspectives, leading to more creative solutions adapted to a global marketplace.
2. Talent acquisition: Professionals look for environments where individualism and fairness are valued.
3. Connecting with global clients: An inclusive team better understands customer needs and values in different regions and cultural contexts.

Best practices for fostering D&I in multicultural teams

Cultural skills and unconscious bias training

Training helps employees understand cultural differences and identify their own prejudices, promoting respectful and collaborative interactions.

How to execute:

• Conduct interactive workshops with practical examples;
• Use simulations or role-playing for multicultural work scenarios; and
• Measure the impact through pre- and post-training surveys.

Design customisable benefits

Standard benefits may not meet the needs of a multicultural team. Allowing customisable options ensures that each contributor receives what he or she truly values.

Common options:

• Flexible schedules to accommodate time differences or cultural celebrations.
• Days off for local or religious holidays.
• International relocation support, such as relocation services or legal advice.

Implement transparent and measurable policies

D&I policies must be clear and backed by metrics that assess their real impact.

How to implement:

Set clear objectives – for example, to achieve 50% of women in leadership positions by 2027.

• Publish periodic reports on progress in D&I.
• Create internal diversity committees to monitor progress.

Promote Inclusive and Respectful Language.

Language in internal and external communications should reflect inclusive values.

How to execute:

• Replace exclusionary terms with neutral and respectful language;
• Adapt communication according to cultural and linguistic preferences;
• Offer materials in multiple languages.

Benefits of D&I at the corporate level

1. Improved organisational climate: More cohesive and satisfied teams.
2. Reduced turnover: Increased employee engagement.
3. External recognition: Customers and business partners prefer inclusive companies.

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Beatriz Bernal serves as the HR consultant at Vission Firm México, with 12 years of experience. Her expertise is to connect companies with appropriate talent, strengthen the organisational culture of the firm’s clients, and contribute strategically to their organisational development. Her approach is to create great teams, and promote healthy workplace environments that align with each organisation.