10 Examples of Diversity in the Workplace

Diversity is often used as a blanket term to denote persons of different backgrounds, cultures, demographics, and experiences. Race is only one facet of the rich tapestry that diversity encompasses. 

With that in mind, let’s explore some examples of how workplace diversity takes shape in office culture.

1. Gender Diversity

Gender is a prime example of diversity in the workplace. Women bring a much-needed perspective to the otherwise male-dominated workforce. Their insights, observations, and firsthand knowledge, especially when it comes to products and services for women, are critical.

However, there is still a long way to go toward eliminating the pay gap between men and women. A U.S. Department of Labor analysis from 2024 found that women earned an average of 84% of their male counterparts’ salaries.

2. Gender Identity

Gender identity is another important example of diversity in the workplace. A person’s gender identity is a complex and multifaceted concept that goes beyond the traditional binary understanding of male and female.

The modern workplace culture may see many different types of diversity in gender identity including: 

• Nonbinary: Not defined by the traditional male/female identifiers
• Genderfluid: No fixed gender
• Transgender: Does not identify with their assigned gender at birth
• Agender: Not relating to any specific gender 
• Gender-Nonconforming: Does not conform to gender-specific societal norms

Organizations that work to create an open, inclusive environment can reassure their employees that they are valued regardless of their gender identities. 

3. Sexual Orientation

Sexual orientation is a vital example of diversity in the workplace. The spectrum of sexual orientation is becoming more and more diverse all the time. 

While sexual orientation is not easily classified because of its multifaceted nature, it often falls into these categories within the LGBTQIA+ acronym:

• Bisexual
• Lesbian
• Gay
• Transgender
• Queer and/or Questioning
• Intersex
• Asexual

It is crucial for workplace environments to be accepting and respectful of all people regardless of their sexual orientation. It is also important to stay updated on changes to these terms as they evolve over time.

By accepting and promoting a diverse workforce of people with different sexual orientations, employees will feel free to express themselves and use their talents and skills without the fear of negative consequences. 

4. Ethnicity

Ethnicity is a common example of diversity in the workplace. Ethnicity and race are sometimes thought to be interchangeable, but they have distinct differences. Race is a social construct that divides people into groups based on physical traits.

Ethnicity, on the other hand, goes beyond a person’s outward appearance. An individual’s ethnicity relates to their cultural makeup. This includes elements like:

• Language
• Religion
• Ancestry
• Cultural practices
• Traditions

Having employees with distinct ethnic backgrounds brings a melting-pot mindset to office culture. Ethnically diverse employees bring a unique set of worldviews to the workplace.

It is important to think of ethnicity as more than just a box to tick off to fulfill a workplace diversity requirement. For example, a person with a diverse ethnic background can bring their perspective and experience to the role of human resources manager. 

5. Generational Diversity

Age is a unique example of diversity in the workplace. A diverse workforce is one that blends multiple age groups together. Different age groups bring a mixture of life and work experience levels, personal backgrounds, and types of knowledge. These perspectives help a company’s culture adapt and evolve with time. 

Older employees can help mentor younger employees in the ways of the business world. Younger employees may be able to impart their technological skills and cultural viewpoints to older employees. 

6. Neurodiversity

Neurodiversity is an often overlooked example of diversity in the workplace. Neurodiversity refers to those who do not operate within the confines of traditional thought processes. Neurodivergent people are commonly labeled with conditions such as ADHD, ASD, dyslexia, OCD, dysgraphia, and more.

This, by no means, implies that they are not smart. Neurodivergent employees may be highly intelligent, but their cognitive functions often differ from their non-neurodivergent co-workers. They may not think in a linear, straightforward way, which can be an advantage in the workplace. Their diverse thought processes allow them to approach problems in a different way and offer up innovative solutions.

7. Diversity in Disability and Accessibility

Disabilities refer to much more than physical impairments. Many disabilities are not even outwardly visible. According to a 2023 study covered in a Psychology Today article, as much as 80% of disabilities may be attributed to areas such as:

• Mental health
• Anxiety
• Depression
• PTSD
• Autoimmune disorders
• Diabetes
• Heart disease

Employees with different abilities can thrive in a diverse workplace culture when given the necessary adaptations and accessibility tools.

8. Language Diversity

Language differences are often seen as a barrier to a productive workplace. But it is also an example of diversity in the workplace that has a great benefit. Navigating multiple languages is a skill that relates to increased cognitive flexibility. 

Having a multilingual staff can help businesses in many ways, including managing international clients. This can help grow a business and allow it to have a more worldly appeal. 

9. Religious Diversity

Religious diversity is an example of diversity in the workplace that isn’t always considered. Often, employees are forced to take on the persona of the office culture they are working in. This can stifle their ability to tap into their true skills and potential.

Employees who are permitted to practice their unique religious beliefs in the workplace without fear of persecution or harassment will be more productive. They will be of a mindset that is ready to collaborate and coexist in the workplace.

It could be as simple as setting aside a room with prayer mats for Muslim employees to have their prayer time during the workday.

10. Socioeconomic Diversity

Hiring employees from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds is another example of diversity in the workplace. Employees who come from diverse backgrounds may understand what it’s like to not have as much versus those who were privileged. Because of this, they can offer unique perspectives on various issues relating to workplace culture. For example, they may be able to speak to the needs and concerns of customers from various socioeconomic backgrounds.

Benefits of a Master’s Degree in DEI

While everyone from entry-level employees to long-tenured executives can contribute to diversity in the workplace, it often takes a highly-trained administrator or expert to put effective DEI policies in place. The policies should go beyond superficial approaches to diversity and actually empower people from all backgrounds to succeed. Administrators with a master’s degree in DEI leadership have the skills to make that happen.

Through a master’s in DEI leadership program, new and experienced professionals alike can take classes on:

• Law and organizational policy
• Organizational behavior
• Ethical, social justice-oriented research
• Change management
• Cross-cultural communication
• Identity safety

These types of programs can help a wide range of professionals, including educators, human resources managers, financial administrators, consultants, and more, promote diversity in the workplace. And considering the benefits of a diverse workforce, these professionals can have a positive impact on company culture, financial returns, and social stewardship.

Pursue Your Master’s in Diversity, Inclusion, and Equity at NDNU

Diversity in the workplace is a vital part of any good company culture. Diversity allows for worldly perspectives and a multicultural office culture. 

Notre Dame de Namur University is a WSCUC accredited private Catholic institution located in Belmont, CA. Explore our new 100% online Master of Arts in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Leadership program. We also have graduate programs in Business, Education, and Psychology.

If you’re interested in learning more about an MA DEIL from NDNU, then speak to our team to request information today.