Why Diversity in Communications Matters and How We Can Do Better
The essence of communication lies in the connections we have with others. But how can we truly create meaningful discussions from our connections if everyone at the table looks and sounds the same?
Having the opportunity to live in a city like New York, one of the most diverse in the world, I have seen the power of having diverse groups in our organization and the shortcomings of not having enough of them. From failure to create messages that resonate across cultures to deaf tone moments, the lack of representation and diversity in communications is no longer just a gap, but a liability.
But why is it so important?
1. Today’s audiences are more diverse than ever.
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, more than 40% of the U.S. population identifies as non-white, and Generation Z is the most racially and ethnically diverse generation in history. If our organizations do not adapt to these changes and if our messages fail to reflect the importance we place on inclusion, we are not speaking to our audience, but rather bypassing them, this creates a gap between audiences and companies, making it nearly impossible to build a loyal relationship.
2. Seeing yourself represented builds trust
The Edelman Trust Barometer (2025) shows that people are likely to trust brands that reflect their values and communities. When individuals see themselves represented in an organization’s messaging, it creates more room for them to feel seen, respected and fostering connection.
3. Diverse groups are more likely to identify blind spots
From cultural nuances to vocabulary choices, having diverse teams helps brands avoid mistakes that can cause a communication crisis and become a trend for the wrong reasons. It also helps to avoid biases and stereotypes. It means considering how the message will reach different parts of the world and their cultures to be respectful and relevant to them.
How can we do better?
1. Diversify your team, at all levels.
It’s not just about checking boxes to meet expectations. True diversity is about having people from different backgrounds in influential positions, especially in roles essential to decision-making. Supporting differences, whether cultural, linguistic, or even age, helps organizations interact more effectively, giving more room for creativity and innovation.
2. Invest in cultural competence.
Diversity and inclusion training programs for employees are a valuable tool for improving leadership. This creates awareness and understanding of the importance of inclusive communication. These programs provide the team with the tools to build strategies that encourage lines of communication where different perspectives and ideas are appreciated and recognized.
3. Build intentional partnerships
Collaborating with other brands and people who align with the company’s mission and vision as well as our plan to highlight diversity also helps shape the message we want to convey. Highlighting people from underrepresented communities with projects related to our organization allows us to better understand what matters to these communities and what their priorities are.
Diversity in the community industry is no longer just a nice to have, but imperative for our organizations. It’s how we create stronger global relationships, tell stories with more content and strength, and have impacts that resonate with audiences throughout the world.
References:
CIIC PR. (2022, February 15). Why diversity in communications matters [Video]. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=48RoRi0ddRU
Associated Industries of Massachusetts. (2022, April 7). Why inclusive communication matters in the workplace. AIM HR Solutions. https://aimnet.org/why-inclusive-communication-matters-in-the-workplace/
