HR trends shaping the future of work in 2025
Ethics and compliance
There is growing evidence that workplace diversity promotes productivity, innovation, employee job satisfaction and an organization’s financial performance. Creating a diverse and inclusive workforce, however, means more than simply hiring employees of different backgrounds, races and genders. Rather, it requires a culture that consistently fosters inclusion, making employees feel accepted and encouraged to participate fully […]
There is growing evidence that workplace diversity promotes productivity, innovation, employee job satisfaction and an organization’s financial performance. Creating a diverse and inclusive workforce, however, means more than simply hiring employees of different backgrounds, races and genders. Rather, it requires a culture that consistently fosters inclusion, making employees feel accepted and encouraged to participate fully in the organization. One of the fundamental ways employers can create and maintain such a culture is through a Code of Conduct.
What Does a Code of Conduct Do?
A Code of Conduct sets out an organization’s core values and expectations for behavior. It also provides employees with guidance on how to navigate difficult situations in the workplace. As the foundation of organizational culture, a Code of Conduct can go a long way towards fostering diversity and inclusion in the workplace by highlighting what is — and what is not — acceptable behavior and promoting inclusive thinking.
The following are key considerations for developing a Code of Conduct that supports a diverse and inclusive workforce:
A Code of Conduct can serve as a roadmap for fostering ethical behavior, respect, diversity and inclusion in the workplace. By signaling to employees that the organization will support them when they act in accordance with its values, expectations, processes and procedures, employees may be more likely to speak up about harassment, discrimination, bias or other misconduct that can undermine D&I strategy. Overall, an effective Code of Conduct should encourage employees to help the organization achieve its mission and create a positive and productive workplace in which all employees feel their ideas and participation are valued and respected.