From D&I to DEIB: Why a sense of belonging can make all the difference
“Longing to be” and “being for long”
Empty offices, empty streets, empty urban centers. We all remember the images from the early days of the pandemic. Across the globe, lockdowns provided a stark visual of what the world looks like without people: empty.
In the United States, two-thirds of employees said that the COVID-19 pandemic caused them to seriously reflect on their life’s purpose. They thought about what was most important and where they belonged.
Even though people work remotely now more than ever, employees expect their jobs to bring a meaningful sense of purpose to their lives. Individuals who feel a sense of belonging at work are reportedly 39% more productive and 35% less likely to look for another job. It’s described, on the one hand, as “longing to be” and, on the other, as “being for long.”
The shift from Diversity & Inclusion (D&I) to Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB) couldn’t be timelier. Progressive companies have recognized its importance for sustainable business, not least because today’s narrow talent pool increasingly views potential employers through a DEIB lens. It’s just the right thing to do. A place where everyone belongs is also a place where everyone can be their authentic self.
At DHL, we believe the “B” … well … truly belongs. Belonging along with equity take us beyond diversity and inclusion to a place where everyone can feel connected and comfortable at work, while contributing to a bigger purpose. This culture can unlock untold potential, help us pursue our company purpose – Connecting People, Improving Lives – and ensure we stay fit for the future of work in logistics.
Below we share what DEIB means to us and the logistics industry.
The importance of DEIB in the workplace
Sources: Achievers Workforce Institute, McKinsey & Company, Deloitte and Glassdoor
Belonging builds community
Although many organizations recognize the growing importance of DEIB – and just how essential the belonging piece is to the puzzle – most are still learning how to make sure everyone feels like they belong, regardless of their individuality. They want to create a close-knit community with a common purpose, but how?
A 2020 Deloitte study found that people feel a sense of belonging at work when three mutually reinforcing factors are in place: comfort, connection, and contribution. We need to feel comfortable at work, including feeling physically and psychologically safe, being treated fairly, and being respected by others. We need to feel connected to our peers and teams. And we need to feel like we contribute to a meaningful purpose, with our unique strengths helping achieve common goals.
The three factors are viewed as a progression from comfort to connection to contribution. An inclusive environment is the first step. People feel comfortable when they feel safe, respected, and treated fairly. Next, workers feel connected when they share the organization’s purpose and values and sense that those around them do as well. Finally, the feeling of contribution comes when they see how their unique talents and efforts make a difference.
At DHL, we’re doing our best to create an environment where all three can thrive. For example, we understand that our purpose as a logistics company is to connect people and improve lives, not simply to transport things from A to B. We value Respect & Results, and our vision is to be THE logistics company for the world. This trifecta forms the core of our shared DNA and the foundation for a comfortable and inclusive environment. Building on that, we create opportunities to connect and contribute, such as our First Choice approach and Certified program, which bring us together to improve and excel continuously. Our social impact and volunteering programs are examples of global initiatives that provide highly effective and gratifying ways to contribute our time and expertise to people in need.
What do our people think?
As far as we’re concerned, DEIB spans the full spectrum. However you identify, wherever you come from, and whatever your gender, abilities, age and experience, or beliefs, you can contribute and you belong. But don’t just take our word for it. Click on the images below to hear from employees around the world.
Why go looking for the latest logistics trends and business insights when you can have them delivered right to you?
Case study: Global Volunteer Day
Our Global Volunteer Day (GVD) program provides the framework to facilitate employee volunteering at the local level in close collaboration with independent local organizations and charities. GVD is not limited to a single day or project but is designed to promote lasting ties between our people and the many local non-profits and charities they support with their time and skills throughout the year.
What are the key challenges facing DEIB?
- Overcoming discomfort and prioritizing change
- Communicating values and attracting diverse talent
- Addressing underlying bias and enabling open dialogue
- Understanding that change takes time
Published: February 2023
