Why Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Should Always be a Top Priority for Hiring Managers

Inclusivity means not ‘just we’re allowed to be there,’ but we are valued. I’ve always said: smart teams will do amazing things, but truly diverse teams will do impossible things. 

~Claudia Brind-Woody

Let’s be honest. Hiring managers are a driving force behind the future of their organizations. If they are looking to make an impact, driving Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives is a must. Although DEI has been a topic of discussion (and sadly, a bone of contention), hiring managers are responsible for bringing these principles to life in the recruitment process and beyond. In order to implement a truly inclusive workplace, prioritizing DEI is step one.

It’s 2025 -- look at the world around us. It is diverse, and that is a fact. A fact that should be acknowledged and embraced. A more inclusive team brings a range of perspectives. What does that mean? New ideas and cohesion are bound to lead to better decision-making. Different talent and experience will level up a company – giving them a competitive edge across the board.

Hiring managers who correctly adopt DEI help create a company culture where all employees feel valued, respected, heard, and included. When individuals from a variety of backgrounds see that an organization is committed to diversity and inclusion, they are more likely to feel like they belong, that they can be their authentic self. This, in turn, leads to retention, improved collaboration, and a more positive workplace culture overall.

In the current job market, the people you want to hire are more likely to be drawn to organizations that demonstrate the importance of DEI. Candidates want to work for companies that align with their values. By making DEI a central focus of their recruiting practices, hiring managers can position their company as an employer of choice for top talent across diverse demographics.

A key advantage of diverse teams is their ability to address problems from a multitude of angles. When hiring managers emphasize DEI, they are more capable of developing innovative solutions, ideas that are unique and fresh. Teams with diverse backgrounds can approach challenges in ways that are not your typical ‘norm.’ This will lead to creative and effective outcomes, which is destined to lead to a company’s long-term success. In industries that are forever evolving, this type of thinking is critical for staying ahead of the competition.

If Hiring Managers focus on diversifying their teams, fostering inclusion, and creating equal opportunities for all, their company will be more innovative, successful, and sustainable long-term. As the world becomes more and more interconnected, prioritizing DEI is not just the right thing to do -- it is essential.

About our author: Ashtin Givens is a volunteer committee member for our Diversity Equity and Inclusion Committee and a Client Relationship Manager with Garnet River.