The Importance of Anti-Discrimination Training

Every employee deserves to work in an environment free from discrimination and bias. Anti-discrimination training is key to making that a reality. It gives staff the knowledge and tools to identify unfair treatment and empowers them to foster a workplace where diversity is embraced.

Below, we’ll discuss the importance of anti-discrimination training, how it can improve team dynamics, and the positive impact it has on overall workplace morale and productivity.

What Is the Definition of Discrimination in the Workplace?

Before we discuss diversity and inclusion, let us first define discrimination. Discrimination is discussed often, but the term is gaining more and more relevance in the workplace.

Discrimination in the workplace occurs when an employer treats an employee or candidate unfairly based on protected characteristics, such as race and religion. The EEOC enforces statutes that protect certain situations from job discrimination, including the following:

• Unfair treatment based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, age, or genetic information
• Harassment by managers, co-workers, or others due to these factors
• Denial of reasonable workplace changes due to religious beliefs or disability
• Improper questions or disclosure of genetic or medical information
• Retaliation for complaints or assistance in job discrimination proceedings

How Can You Promote Diversity and Inclusion?

Harassment and discrimination are common issues that can have a substantial impact on employees' well-being and performance. Every employer should be aware of the significance of inclusion and diversity in the workplace to combat these issues. Employers must stay up to date if they wish to adapt to the changing times.

If you want workers to feel at ease and supported, it's critical for organizations to have an inclusive culture. Workplace diversity is essential for organizations to thrive in today's global and interconnected world, as it provides various benefits.

Diverse teams frequently use diverse viewpoints and techniques to address complicated problems, broadening the variety of possible solutions and raising the probability of finding the best one. Businesses require varied people to efficiently service a worldwide client base because a diverse staff gives insight into consumer preferences, wants, and expectations.

Organizations that encourage diversity and inclusion are perceived as progressive, forward-thinking, and socially responsible, which benefits their reputation. According to recent studies, diverse teams improve decision-making, problem-solving, innovation, and profitability.

How Can We Prevent Discrimination in the Workplace?

One of the best ways to prevent discrimination in the workplace is through anti-discrimination training. Training gives you the tools you need to invite open communication, create lasting policies, and anticipate issues before they arise. There are many ways to prevent discrimination in the workplace, including:

• Handling prejudice through training
• Establishing clear harassment and discrimination policies
• Standardizing candidate interviews for a bias-free process
• Redesigning job descriptions to remove prejudice
• Providing diversity training for an inclusive environment
• Regularly updating recruitment and promotion procedures
• Designating complainants to avoid pain

Enforcing anti-discrimination training will educate those who are uninformed and screen out individuals who could be intentionally biased and prejudiced.

Employees who complete training will also have the knowledge and resources necessary to recognize and report harassment or discrimination. It lays out expectations for the proper conduct of all parties and illustrates the possible repercussions for breaking the rules or the law. Assisting those who could be targets and alerting those who might be offenders is integral to anti-discrimination practices.

What Are the Benefits of Anti-Discrimination Training? 

In most companies, training on harassment and discrimination is an absolute must. A new Glassdoor study states that 61% of American workers have either personally experienced or observed workplace discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation, gender, race, or age. Plus, 23% of workers globally report having been the victim of violence or harassment at work.

The numbers are staggering and deeply concerning. That is why employers are mandated by many jurisdictions to provide training on sexual harassment, diversity, and implicit bias. The number one objective of discrimination training is to prevent discriminatory behavior.

Organizations can adhere to legal standards with the use of anti-discrimination training. The rules against employment discrimination are enforced by the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). By making this training mandatory, you may steer clear of any issues with the EEOC.

Reducing Legal Risks

Organizations can significantly reduce legal risks by offering discrimination training.  There is a price for filing accusations of retaliation, harassment, and discrimination at work. No one's civil rights should be violated, especially at work.

Training programs show compliance and proactive measures against discriminatory behavior. Addressing personal issues before they escalate can prevent significant penalties and avoid the risk of discrimination lawsuits. Educating your staff can prevent mistakes before they ever happen.

Encouraging Workers

Try your hardest to provide your staff with a sense of empowerment. With the correct training, you can do it. Anti-discrimination training empowers workers to speak up against harassment and prejudice. Employees are provided resources and encouragement for open communication.

Effects On Health

Many studies show a clear link between discrimination in the workplace and adverse effects on employee's health. Physical as well as emotional health is impacted. As many as 55% of workers report having encountered prejudice at their present place of employment.

A worker's physical well-being may be negatively impacted by increased aches and pains, headaches, elevated blood pressure, or even a higher chance of cardiovascular disease. Depression and anxiety disorders may arise or worsen as a result of impacted mental health. This might show up at work in a variety of ways, such as not feeling safe or like you belong.

Developing Trust

Company owners need credibility and trust to create a safe and welcoming workplace. Investing in anti-discrimination training demonstrates an organization's commitment to social responsibility and equality. It’s a fast and effective way to prove your standing as a moral and welcoming employer. Trust from customers, supporters, and staff is crucial for success.

It’s important to remember that there is a huge difference between saying you are an inclusive workplace and truly being one. Your standing is paramount. Good standing can help you keep your current clientele and draw in new talent who seek a safe work environment.

Cultivating Culturally Sensitive Staff

Employers may improve cultural competency by offering discrimination training. This allows employees to understand and manage various communication channels and social identities. They can encourage cooperation and adaptation in this way. Some employees may find these ideas innovative. They may be fresh to others, especially those from diverse backgrounds. The right training program can do just that. 

How Can We Start a Culture of Anti-Discrimination?

Anti-discrimination training should not be put off. While there is the legal aspect that does necessitate it, it can also enhance employee development and cultural awareness. We at 360training know the importance of reliable, self-paced training. That is why we offer 100% online training courses.  

Take a look at our Harassment and Discrimination for Employees as well as our Harassment and Discrimination for Managers to find the right training that works for you.