New shape of work: Embrace DEI in your workplace 

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Deliver equality of opportunity, experience and pay in your workforce

The pursuit of diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) has moved front and centre for organisations worldwide. This has been driven by the negative impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic and the global outcry against racial injustice. Now, more than ever, organisations should focus on achieving long-term, sustainable change.

Real change requires real action. Companies must:

  • Apply data-driven insights
  • Develop clear, visible goals
  • Ensure leadership commitment and accountability

There has long been a significant and discouraging “say/do” gap between the values companies express publicly and the impact these words have on the delivery of equality. According to Mercer’s 2020 report, Let’s Get Real About Equality, 81% of organisations globally say they are focused on improving diversity, equity and inclusion. Yet, only 42% report having a documented multi-year strategy, and just 50% set formal quantitative DEI goals and targets.

So how can organisations make better progress towards diversity, equity and inclusion?

Defining diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI)

  • Diversity

    Evolve representation

    How well does your workforce represent the communities you work amongst and serve? What is your five- to 10-year trajectory for increasing the presence of under-represented groups?

  • Equity

    Design to ensure access

    How well do you ensure that your employees receive equitable rewards for their work and fair access to progression opportunities?

  • Inclusion

    Foster belonging

    How well does the culture, environment and experience your business offers instil a sense of belonging, authenticity and trust?

Only 30% of organisations are using technology to systematically address DEI challenges. 
Global Talent Trends

Three ways to start building an evidence-based DEI strategy

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Get your personalised report

Assess your company’s approach to DEI, and use your results to identify opportunity areas and focus on next steps.

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Diversity, equity and inclusion 

Take sustainable actions to advance equitable career, health and financial wellness outcomes.

Learn more about DEI

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Take action on DEI

Design and implement a comprehensive strategy that ensures equality of opportunity, experience and pay.

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Related content

  • Podcast

    Breaking the gender bias

    March 07, 2022 | Episode 19 | 16:05
    With men still holding the majority of the positions of power in the global workforce, gender equality will simply not happen without their involvement. Join us as Mercer’s Angela Berg discusses how to equip men to participate in the DEI journey and how embedding DEI across the organisation can lead to competitive advantage.
  • Point of view

    Stepping up for equity

    Learn what organisations are doing to advance racial equity in the workplace — and what you can do to help Black employees thrive.
  • Solution

    Organisational design

    Mercer’s organization design consulting can help you transition from a traditional multilayered organization to a simple, agile and distributed structure.

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