Embracing diversity and igniting excellence: Unveiling the impact of workplace inclusion on organizational outcomes in the Indian IT sector

Abstract

ABSTRACTIn the context of globalization and the increasing diversity of workforce, workplace inclusivity has emerged as a critical factor for organizations aiming to gain a competitive advantage. This study employs the Social Exchange Theory framework to explore the impact of workplace inclusivity on three key employee outcomes: organizational identification, organizational commitment, and employee creativity. To test the model, a survey employing standardized questionnaires was conducted to collect data from 273 professionals belonging to IT sector organizations based in Kolkata, India. PLS-SEM using SmartPLS 4.0 has been used to analyze reliability, validity, and relationship among constructs. The findings indicate that when employees perceive themselves as included in organizational processes, they exhibit higher levels of commitment, a stronger sense of identification with the organization, and enhanced creativity in problem-solving activities. These findings have significant implications for the Indian IT sector, characterized by diverse work teams. Employees’ perception of inclusion not only enhances their commitment to the organization but also stimulates their creativity in performing work-related tasks, thereby contributing to the overall sustainability of the organization. Furthermore, the conceptual and managerial implications, limitations, and future research directions have been discussed accordingly.