CorpComms Magazine

Almost three quarters of businesses have found a link between internal diversity initiatives and employee engagement, according to a new report by Opportunity Now.

Four in ten companies can demonstrate that customer satisfaction levels have risen as a result of their diversity activities, while 22 per cent of organisations believe these initiatives have helped them grow market share. Indeed, almost nine in ten organisations, 86 per cent, are actually putting funds in place to create more diverse workplaces.

Sarah Williams-Gardener, director of Opportunity Now, said: 'Our research proves that there is still a very clear business imperative for equality and diversity and that employers are continuing to show commitment and dedication to creating workplaces where everyone can succeed.'

Not-for-profit organisation Opportunity Now analysed the workplace practices of 77 of the UK's biggest organisations.

It found that diversity is still a big issue in the boardroom, and that in 55 per cent of companies an executive director is held directly accountable for delivering gender objectives. Indeed, in 19 per cent of companies the chief executive is the champion of equality and diversity in the work place. 

Equal pay is also on the business agenda, with 69 per cent of companies conducting an equal pay audit while 44 per cent provide training on equal pay issues to managers involved in salary decisions. 

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