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DEI(B) in the Workplace: What Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging Really Mean

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Group of diverse hands holding colorful interlocking puzzle pieces arranged in a circle, symbolizing teamwork, collaboration, and unity.

Have you heard the term diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging [DEI(B)] used in the workplace? It may seem like they are “HR buzzwords,” but they can help businesses and work communities thrive. Let’s dig deeper into each part of DEI(B) to explore how the term impacts the workplace. This article explains what diversity means at work.

Diversity

Diversity is understanding that every individual is unique, while recognizing that differences are deeply rooted in society.

To further explain diversity, coaching platform BetterUp highlights four common types of diversity found in the workplace:

  • Internal: Internal diversity refers to any trait or characteristic that a person is born with. These might include sex, race, gender, sexual orientation, nationality, or physical ability. 
  • External: External diversity describes any attribute, experience, or circumstance that helps to define a person’s identity, but is not a physical attribute they were born with. Socioeconomic status, education, marital status, religion, appearance, and location are all external diversity characteristics.
  • Organizational: Differences in job function, work experience, seniority, department, or management level are referred to as organizational diversity.
  • Worldview: Worldview diversity encompasses a broad range of beliefs, political affiliations, culture, and travel experiences. 

A recent survey by Pew Research Center focuses on the amount of importance U.S. workers place on diversity. The survey revealed workers have mixed opinions about diversity’s value in the workplace.

Bar chart showing U.S. workers’ opinions on diversity aspects: 32% say different races and ethnicities are very important, 28% different ages, 26% gender mix, and 18% sexual orientations.

About Express Employment Professionals

At Express Employment Professionals, we’re in the business of people. From job seekers to client companies, Express helps people thrive and businesses grow. Our international network of franchises offers localized staffing solutions to the communities they serve across the U.S., Canada, South Africa, Australia, and New Zealand, employing more than 11 million since its inception. Learn more at ExpressPros.com or ExpressPros.ca.

Last Updated on March 17, 2026

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