Equality, diversity, and inclusion

Abstract

How do effective directors ensure that their actions and behaviours are fully inclusive, respecting equality and diversity and being supportive of the organisation’s sustainability? Based on a framework of global corporate governance best practice, which can be used in all organisations anywhere in the world, this chapter of Questions To Ask (QTA) in the boardroom gives a high-level introduction to fostering organisational equality, diversity, and inclusion (ED&I). ED&I has become an organisational imperative. The mounting evidence from the last 15-20 years has left little doubt that having insight into these matters is salient to most aspects of your organisational success. Whether you consider the inputs; attracting capital, talent, or customers; efficiency in production, processes, and interactions internally; or the outputs/impacts of your organisation and its branding, products, customer relations, or effect on society, ED&I is now on the radar for stakeholders. The chapter’s introduction leads into outlining the key Questions To Ask in the boardroom, giving the reader further insight into how to initiate discussions about ED&I. The suggested questions cover investors, suppliers, and partners; legislation, risk, and transparency; people, talent, and culture; core business and communication; and customers, community, and market growth.