The Dutch tech sector considers diversity in the workplace necessary, but the urgency to make real progress in addressing inequality is lacking. This is according to the State of Inclusion in Dutch Tech survey, conducted by Diverse Leaders in Tech (an initiative of Techleap).
- Techleap researched the importance of diversity and inclusion in the workplace of tech companies.
- Two-thirds of all tech employees think diversity is essential, but 65 percent see little concrete evidence of it in their organizations.
- Three-quarters claim equality in the organization, yet half of employees from immigrant backgrounds report not being treated equally.
Techleap argues that two crucial steps are needed to close that gap. On the one hand, awareness of how diversity directly contributes to business success must be greater. Second, it is crucial to understand better how inclusion in the tech sector is actually experienced by different groups.
Many Dutch tech employees recognize the importance of diversity and inclusion. Two-thirds (66%) think it is essential that active steps are taken in their organization. This is not just for social reasons (50%), as 62% believe it contributes to a positive image and outreach to diverse audiences.
So, while many tech workers recognize the importance, it is notable that resistance and criticism are increasing as initiatives become more concrete. According to the report, many respondents argue that the topic is being exaggerated and do not see much point in setting goals and responsibilities.
Wake-up call
“The gap between how we communicate diversity to the outside world and what we see in reality is a wake-up call for the entire industry,” explained Ingrid Tappin, Director of Diverse Leaders in Tech at Techleap. “Even when you look at the current election discussions, you see that issues of diversity and equal opportunity are under a huge magnifying glass. We need to be aware that we need the best talent and, therefore, accelerate on this issue. This is how we help people get ahead and can allow the Netherlands to continue to grow.”
Men find the importance of diversity exaggerated
Almost half of men (47%) think the importance of diversity in the workplace is exaggerated, compared to a quarter (24%) of women. Moreover, a third of men (34%) do not see the added value, while 9 in 10 women (86%) do believe that diversity, equality, and inclusion are vital for business success.
While three-quarters (77%) of tech employees believe everyone gets equal opportunities, and more than two-thirds (71%) are satisfied with how inequality is addressed, it is not always perceived that way by other groups. More than a third (35%) of employees from immigrant backgrounds cite discrimination as a significant problem in the tech industry, and 45% say they are not treated equally.
“There is an inclusion perception gap that we cannot ignore,” Tappin argues. “Organizations need to take this signal seriously and invest in education and understanding around the value of diversity and inclusion. By making these aspects measurable, you can leverage diversity as a catalyst for business success and create an equal environment for all employees.”
Knowledge is lacking
Half of the respondents (49%) believe a diverse management team is essential to the company. Young people (Gen Y and Z) are more likely to recognize the importance of role models: 61% name the added value of diverse leadership. Only 2 in 5 (39%) of employees over 44 see the importance of diversity at the top.
Tech employees are unfamiliar with initiatives seeking to improve workplace diversity, equality, and inclusion. As many as two-thirds (65%) cannot name concrete actions being taken within their organization. In addition, 60% believe that additional investments to encourage diversity are unnecessary, and only a quarter (27%) see the value of quotas in helping their company better reflect society.
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