5 Benefits of Pursuing Diversity and Inclusion Certification for Your Organization
8 min. read.
D&I certification isn’t just a fancy piece of paper – it’s a smart business move that pays off in multiple ways. Here’s why your organization should consider it in 2025 and beyond:
- Better company image
- Easier to hire and keep top talent
- More creativity and innovation
- Improved financial results
- Helps meet legal requirements
Quick comparison of D&I certification benefits:
Table of Contents
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Benefit
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Impact
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|---|---|
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Company image
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Attracts customers and talent
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Talent management
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Wider talent pool, better retention
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Creativity
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19% higher innovation revenue
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Financial results
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Up to 36% higher profitability
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Legal compliance
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Fewer discrimination claims
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D&I certification teaches you how to create a workplace where everyone can thrive. It’s not just about ticking boxes – it’s about building a stronger, more successful company.
At Most Loved Workplace®, an innovative and comprehensive methodology fuels our dedication to uncovering and celebrating the forefront runners in workplace diversity. Leveraging the latest machine learning technology alongside our exclusive Love of Workplace Index™, and the research validation from our team of data analysts at Best Practice Institute, we provide an insightful and nuanced perspective on organizational diversity efforts that is unmatched in depth and scope.
This unique approach enables us to cut through the noise and truly understand the fabric of an organization’s culture, going beyond traditional diversity metrics to explore the genuine experiences and sentiments of employees from varied backgrounds. Through sophisticated sentiment analysis and the Love of Workplace Index™, we evaluate the emotional engagement of employees, their sense of belonging, and the inclusivity of their work environment, offering a rich, multifaceted view of each company’s commitment to diversity and inclusion.
The bottom line? D&I certification is a small step with big payoffs for your team, customers, and profits.
What is D&I Certification?
D&I certification proves you’ve mastered diversity, equity, and inclusion practices. It’s not just a fancy piece of paper – it shows you’re committed to creating a workplace where everyone belongs.
Here’s the scoop:
Certification Types:
- 1. For Individuals:
• Certified Diversity Professional (CDP)
• Certified Diversity Executive (CDE)
• SHRM Inclusive Workplace Culture Specialty Credential
- For Organizations:
These evaluate company-wide D&I policies and practices.
Getting Certified:
- Pick a program
- Complete the coursework
- Pass an exam (usually)
- Keep learning to maintain certification
What You’ll Learn:
• Spotting unconscious bias
• Inclusive hiring
• Boosting employee engagement
• Stopping harassment
• Building an inclusive culture
Certification vs. Certificate:
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Certification
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Certificate
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|---|---|
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Exam required
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Given for course completion
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Employers often prefer it
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Shows you attended a program
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Proves you can apply knowledge
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Focuses on finishing a course
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Time and Money:
Prices vary a lot. Some examples:
• SHRM Inclusive Workplace Culture Credential: $1,830 (members)
• eCornell Diversity & Inclusion Certificate: $3,699
• AIHR Certification Program: $1,125
Most take 2-6 months, depending on how fast you work.
Why Bother?
D&I certification isn’t just for show. It gives you real tools to make a difference. As one HR pro put it:
“Getting D&I certified opened my eyes to issues I hadn’t considered before. It’s helped me build a more inclusive hiring process and address microaggressions in our workplace.“
1. Better Company Image
D&I certification isn’t just a checkbox. It’s a powerful tool to boost your reputation and attract talent.
Here’s how it polishes your company’s image:
Proves Your Commitment
It’s tangible proof you’re serious about inclusivity. Actions speak louder than words.
Attracts Top Talent
76% of job seekers say diversity is crucial when evaluating employers. Certification sends a clear message: you value diversity.
Improves Customer Perception
52% of online consumers consider company values when buying. D&I certification helps you stand out.
Real-World Impact
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Company
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Action
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Result
|
|---|---|---|
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GreenTech Innovations
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Got D&I certified
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Boosted customer interest and loyalty, especially among younger demographics
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GreenTech saw a big image boost post-certification. Their marketing hit home with diverse audiences, strengthening their market presence.
Financial Upside
McKinsey found companies in the top quartile for gender diversity on executive teams were 25% more likely to have above-average profitability.
But remember, certification alone isn’t enough. It must be part of a genuine commitment to inclusivity.
As Kim Krause Berg, Web Design Standards and Compliance Specialist, puts it:
“Digital businesses with accessible websites are demonstrating leadership by example. They are showcasing proof that ethical accessibility practices can help increase brand credibility, inclusion for all, and online conversions.“
Top Most Loved Workplaces® for Diversity 2024
Here are the best of the best, 5-star-only rated Most Loved Workplaces®:
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Stars
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Company
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Industry
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|---|---|---|
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★★★★★
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Hospital & Health Care
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★★★★★
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Technology, Internet
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★★★★★
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Telecommunications
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★★★★★
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Information Technology
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★★★★★
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FinTech
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★★★★★
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Advertising/Marketing/Public Relations
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★★★★★
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Retail
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★★★★★
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Utilities
|
|
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★★★★★
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Financial Services
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|
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★★★★★
|
Market Research and Technology
|
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★★★★★
|
Information Technology
|
|
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★★★★★
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Financial Services
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★★★★★
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Financial Services
|
|
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★★★★★
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Advertising/Marketing/Public Relations
|
|
|
★★★★★
|
Financial Services
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|
|
★★★★★
|
Information Technology
|
|
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★★★★★
|
Financial Services
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|
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★★★★★
|
Information Technology
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★★★★★
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Financial Services
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★★★★★
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Financial Services
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★★★★★
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Hotel/Hospitality/Travel
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★★★★★
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Information Technology
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★★★★★
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Professional Services
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★★★★★
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Music Tech
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★★★★★
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Hospital & Health Care
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★★★★★
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Automotive
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★★★★★
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Financial Services
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★★★★★
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Manufacturing/Industrial Packaging
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★★★★★
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Financial Services
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★★★★★
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Financial Services
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★★★★★
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Food & Beverage
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★★★★★
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Information Technology
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★★★★★
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HR Tech
|
2. Hiring and Keeping Top Talent
D&I certification helps you attract and retain the best employees. Here’s how:
Wider Talent Pool
D&I certification opens up your candidate pool. Companies that embrace diversity in hiring get:
• More candidates to choose from
• A mix of viewpoints and skills
• Better problem-solving
Improved Retention
People stick around in inclusive workplaces. Check this out:
• 23% of employees would jump ship for a more inclusive company
• High-engagement companies outperform low-engagement ones by 202%
Real-World Impact
|
Company
|
What They Did
|
What Happened
|
|---|---|---|
|
Flexible work program
|
Women partner promotions jumped from 26% to 40% in 3 years
|
|
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$15 billion food company
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No weekend emails, no Friday meetings
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Happier employees, less stress
|
Engagement Boost
D&I initiatives fire up employee engagement:
• Engaged employees are 21% more productive
• Inclusive teams are 17% more likely to crush their goals
Financial Upside
Diversity isn’t just nice – it pays off:
• Gender-diverse executive teams are 21% more likely to be more profitable
• Ethnically diverse executive teams are 33% more likely to outperform on profits
But here’s the thing: D&I certification is just step one. You’ve got to walk the talk.
“When employees feel they belong and are valued, they stick around.” – Loeb Leadership
Want to make your D&I efforts count? Try these:
- Use targeted employee surveys to find issues in minority groups
- Run focus groups with outside facilitators
- Have one-on-ones with employees to get the real scoop
- Set clear goals for fairness, belonging, and respect
- Act on feedback – show employees you’re listening
3. More Ideas and Creativity
D&I certification boosts your team’s creativity. Here’s how:
Diverse Teams = Fresh Ideas
Mix people with different backgrounds, get new thinking. Simple as that.
• Diverse teams make better choices 87% of the time (Korn Ferry)
• They’re 70% more likely to find new markets
Real-World Results
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Company
|
Action
|
Outcome
|
|---|---|---|
|
Consulted diverse employees
|
New product line: Legumotti
|
|
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Diverse teams for post-pandemic work
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Innovative ideas, higher engagement
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|
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Cross-division diverse groups
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Idea execution: 40 weeks to 6 weeks
|
Money Talks
Diversity pays off:
• Diverse companies see higher revenue growth
• Top diverse firms grow 11.1% vs 8.6% for laggards
Why It Works
- Different Viewpoints
Diverse teams bring:
• Varied life experiences
• New problem-solving approaches
• Unexpected idea connections
- Risk-Taking
Inclusive teams encourage:
• More brainstorming
• Bolder suggestions
• Out-of-the-box solutions
- Customer Connection
Diverse teams understand different customers, leading to:
• Products fitting more needs
• Services reaching new markets
• Marketing speaking to more people
Make It Happen
Boost creativity:
- Mix up your teams
- Encourage debate
- Solo work first, then share
- Host open brainstorming sessions
“If you’re able to activate diversity, you will have more innovative ideas, processes, and technology available to you and not your competitors.” – Floriana Notarangelo, Chief Diversity & Inclusion Officer, Barilla Group
D&I certification is just the start. Put these ideas into action for real results.
4. Better Financial Results
D&I certification isn’t just about ethics. It’s about money. Check out these stats:
Higher Profits
Diverse leadership teams crush it:
Building a Thriving Workplace Culture!
Discover how to leverage the right technology and implement a proactive strategy that cultivates talent and facilitates team collaboration.
|
Diversity Type
|
Financial Impact
|
|---|---|
|
Gender diverse
|
25% more likely to beat average profits
|
|
Ethnically diverse
|
36% more likely to beat average profits
|
More Revenue
Diversity sparks innovation, boosting revenue:
• 19% higher innovation revenue with diverse management
• 45% of total revenue from innovation (vs. 26% for less diverse companies)
Better Returns
Investors, listen up:
• 53% higher return on equity
• 42% higher return on sales
• 66% higher return on invested capital
These numbers? Fortune 500 companies with 3+ women on their boards.
Real-World Impact
McKinsey found:
• Top diverse companies are 35% more likely to beat industry financial medians
• 10% more executive team diversity = 8% more profit
Why It Works
- Talent Magnet: Diverse companies attract more talent
- Market Savvy: Diverse teams get diverse markets
- Idea Factory: Different views = new solutions
- Smarter Choices: Diverse groups make better decisions 87% of the time
Make It Happen
Want these financial perks?
- Commit to D&I at every level
- Set clear goals you can measure
- Hold leaders responsible
- Invest in D&I training and certification
“Promoting inclusion and diversity helps enhance business performance.” – CFA Institute
D&I certification isn’t just a gold star. It’s a path to better profits. The numbers prove it – diversity pays.
5. Meeting Legal Requirements
D&I certification helps you stay out of legal hot water. Here’s how:
Fewer Discrimination Claims
These programs teach you to spot and stop bias. Result? Fewer lawsuits.
Playing by the Rules
Governments often require diverse suppliers. D&I certification helps you tick that box.
|
Government Program
|
What It Does
|
|---|---|
|
Boosts minority-owned businesses
|
|
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WOSB Federal Contracting
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Pushes for women-owned suppliers
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Legal Armor
If you’re sued, D&I certification shows you’re not messing around. It’s like having a shield in court.
Stopping Problems Before They Start
D&I certification teaches you to:
• Make hiring fair and clear
• Keep bias out of reviews
• Give everyone the same perks
This cuts legal risks at the source.
Real-Life Example
Three big law firms got sued over diversity programs that left some people out. They opened the programs to anyone into D&I, and poof – lawsuits gone.
More Than Just Staying Out of Trouble
D&I certification isn’t just about dodging legal bullets. It’s about building a workplace that rocks.
“Companies going all-in on diversity, equity, and inclusion are winning. It’s not just about following rules or being nice – it’s a business edge.” – CFA Institute
Final Words
D&I certification isn’t just a piece of paper. It’s a game-changer. Here’s why:
- Better Image: It shows you mean business about diversity.
- Talent Magnet: 76% of job seekers want diverse workplaces.
- Creativity Boost: Different views = fresh ideas. Diverse management teams see 19% more innovation revenue.
- Money Talks: The numbers speak for themselves:
|
Diversity Type
|
Financial Impact
|
|---|---|
|
Gender
|
21% higher profitability
|
|
Ethnic
|
35% better returns
|
5. Legal Shield: It helps you stay compliant and shows good faith.
But here’s the thing: D&I isn’t about box-ticking. It’s about creating a workplace where everyone thrives.
“Companies going all-in on diversity, equity, and inclusion are winning. It’s not just about following rules or being nice – it’s a business edge.” – CFA Institute
So, what now? Get certified. It’s a small step with big payoffs. Your team, customers, and bottom line will thank you.
FAQs
What is the ROI of diversity and inclusion?
D&I isn’t just about numbers. It’s about creating a workplace that thrives. Here’s the scoop:
D&I boosts employee engagement. Happy employees do better work. Simple as that.
It also sparks innovation. Different perspectives = new ideas. Companies with diverse management teams see 19% higher innovation revenue.
D&I helps you reach new customers. It’s not just ethics; it’s smart business.
It saves money, too. Less turnover means lower hiring costs.
The financial impact? It’s real:
|
Diversity Type
|
Financial Impact
|
|---|---|
|
Gender-diverse companies
|
15% better performance
|
|
Ethnically-diverse companies
|
35% better performance
|
“For every 10% increase in diversity on executive teams, organizations saw an 8% increase in profitability.” – McKinsey Global Institute
To measure D&I ROI:
• Compare customer satisfaction
• Use Net Promoter Score (NPS)
• Monitor market share growth
• Bottom line? D&I pays off. Big time.
Interested in Becoming a Most Loved Workplace?
Our aim is not only to highlight organizations that are setting the standard for diversity and inclusion but also to provide a roadmap for others aiming to enhance their diversity efforts. The recognition of both large and mid-sized companies across various industries underscores the broad applicability and importance of genuine diversity practices, creating a sense of community and shared purpose.
Louis Carter is the founder and CEO of Best Practice Institute, Most Loved Workplace, and Results-Based Culture. Author of In Great Company, Change Champions Field Guide, and Best Practices in Talent Management, as well as a series of Leadership Development books. He is a trusted strategic advisor and coach to CEOs, CHROs, and leaders of mid-sized to F500 companies – enabling change and steering employer brand development together with highly effective teams, leaders, and organizations as a whole.
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