7 tips to fostering diversity & inclusion in your tour and activity business

In today’s diverse and interconnected world, fostering diversity and inclusion (DEI) is not just a social responsibility but a crucial element for business success. This holds particularly true for the tourism and activity industry, where every customer’s unique perspective and background adds value to the experience.

The tourism and activity industry thrives on providing unique and enriching experiences for travelers. In a world that is becoming increasingly diverse, it’s imperative that businesses in this sector recognize and embrace the importance of diversity and inclusion. Initiatives in this area, such as DEI efforts, not only create an equitable and inclusive workplace but also contribute to a more inclusive culture that resonates with different backgrounds and demographics, making it a safe space for all.

In this article, we will explore how embracing diversity and inclusion within your company can lead to a more welcoming and successful tour or activity business, catering to a diverse background of customers.

Understanding diversity & inclusion

Diversity encompasses the full spectrum of human differences, including but not limited to race, ethnicity, gender identity, age, religion, sexual orientation, and abilities. Inclusion, on the other hand, means creating an inclusive workplace and an inclusive culture where all individuals, regardless of all of the elements listed above, are respected and empowered to participate fully. This creates a sense of belonging for everyone.

Diversity and inclusion are not just moral imperatives; they offer tangible benefits for businesses. Studies show that inclusive and diverse teams are 87% more likely to make better decisions than non-inclusive ones. In the tourism industry, where catering to a diverse clientele is the norm, diversity and inclusion should be a priority.

Challenges on the road to diversity and inclusion

Diversity and inclusion efforts often encounter challenges, some of which include resistance to change and the presence of unconscious bias.

Resistance to change can emerge when individuals within the organization are hesitant to embrace new practices and policies. It’s vital to create a culture where change is seen as an opportunity for growth rather than a threat.

Unconscious bias is another challenge. It involves making judgments about others based on preconceived notions or stereotypes that we might not even be aware of. This could have a detrimental impact on gender diversity, people of color, and LGBTQ individuals.

Recognizing these hurdles is the first step in overcoming them, and creating a more diverse workplace and an inclusive company culture.

7 tips on how to promote diversity and inclusion within your business

Beyond direct customer-facing benefits, fostering an inclusive company culture significantly impacts employee engagement and the unique needs of the business.

To create an inclusive work environment for all employees, practical guidance is essential. Addressing bias, stereotypes, and discrimination should be a priority to promote diversity initiatives and a safe space for employees.

Here are some key steps to consider:

1. Revise hiring practices

An essential step in fostering diversity and inclusion within your tour or activity business is to review and revise your hiring practices. Begin by carefully examining your job descriptions and requirements to ensure they are inclusive and free from bias. It’s crucial to eliminate any unnecessary criteria that might inadvertently restrict the pool of potential applicants.

You could also broaden your recruitment efforts by posting job openings on platforms that cater to a diverse audience. Partner with organizations and networks that specialize in promoting diversity and inclusion, accommodating groups of people with different backgrounds.

2. Recognizing biases in the workplace

Unconscious bias training is a crucial element of fostering diversity and inclusion within your tour or activity business. This training raises awareness among employees about the subtle biases they may hold, enabling them to recognize and mitigate these biases. By promoting self-awareness and offering practical tools to challenge bias, unconscious bias training paves the way for a more inclusive workplace and a diverse workforce.

3. Clear reporting mechanisms

Establish clear and confidential channels for reporting incidents of discrimination or bias. Employees should feel comfortable reporting any concerns, knowing that they will be taken seriously and addressed promptly, enhancing employee experience and promoting a safe space for open dialogue. This proactive approach not only upholds your commitment to diversity and inclusion but also reinforces a culture of trust and accountability within your organization, ultimately contributing to a more inclusive and harmonious workplace.

4. Diverse hiring and promotion practices

The key is to ensure that every decision-making process related to hiring and promotions is based on objective factors and the qualifications of the candidates, rather than subjective judgments influenced by bias. By introducing diversity in hiring panels, you provide a range of perspectives, creating a more equitable and inclusive hiring process. This not only strengthens your team with diverse talent but also fosters an environment where everyone has an equal opportunity to excel, enhancing retention and promoting a sense of belonging for all team members of your business.

5. Accountability and transparency

Hold leaders and employees accountable for their actions related to diversity and inclusion. Promote transparency in diversity efforts and share progress with the organization, ensuring that diversity initiatives are aligned with your inclusion strategy and leadership team.

6. Implement mentoring programs

One powerful strategy for fostering diversity and inclusion within your tour or activity business is to establish mentoring programs. These programs serve as a guiding light for aspiring employees and create a supportive network that encourages professional development and diversity.

Mentoring programs involve pairing experienced employees, often senior leaders or those with substantial expertise, with individuals seeking guidance and growth opportunities. These programs help underrepresented employees overcome barriers and provide them with essential support and mentorship, especially those who may face unique challenges, such as people of color, LGBTQ individuals, or those from diverse backgrounds.

7. Develop a people and culture team

By forming a dedicated People and Culture Department, your tourism business can proactively create a more inclusive and diverse workplace. This department becomes the driving force behind your diversity and inclusion efforts, fostering a sense of belonging and a safe space for all employees. In doing so, it not only benefits your employees but also positively influences your business’s reputation and performance. Moreover, it aligns your organization with the ever-evolving expectations of a diverse and interconnected world, ensuring that your tourism offerings resonate with the broadest possible audience.

Rezdy’s commitment to diversity and inclusion

At Rezdy, we recognize that our greatest asset is our people. Our company culture is built on the fundamental belief that a diverse and inclusive workforce brings strength and innovation to everything we do. We embrace a workplace culture that celebrates different backgrounds, ethnicities, gender identities, and orientations. Our commitment to a sense of belonging for all employees extends to our customers and partners, ensuring that the services we provide are as inclusive and diverse as the communities we serve.

Rezdy actively promotes equity and inclusion through diverse hiring and promotion practices, where every individual has an equal opportunity to excel. Our leadership team is dedicated to ensuring that diversity initiatives are at the forefront of our company’s strategy, aligning with our inclusion strategy and supporting a diverse workplace. We provide mentorship and sponsorship programs that help individuals from all backgrounds reach their full potential, enhancing employee experience and retention.

In the tours and activity industry, the journey toward diversity and inclusion is an ongoing and evolving process. We encourage others in the industry to join us on this journey, recognizing that in diversity and inclusion, we find the key to growth, innovation, and the creation of truly extraordinary experiences for all. Together, we can continue to build a more inclusive world, one tour, one activity, and one interaction at a time.

Interested in joining our team and understanding more about our values as a company? Check out our careers page.

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