What You Don't Know About a Quarter of Your Workforce
Jan 31, 2024
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Many companies underestimate the number of employees with disabilities, which BCG research shows is actually 25%. The podcast explores the reasons behind this misperception and the consequences of hiding disabilities. It also highlights the impact of disability on the workforce, the need to address ableism in the corporate world, and strategies for creating an inclusive environment and supporting disabled employees.
The percentage of employees with disabilities is significantly higher than reported by most companies, with BCG research indicating that 25% of workers globally identify as having a disability or medical condition that limits a major life activity.
Creating an inclusive work environment that accommodates disabilities not only benefits companies by improving employee productivity and reducing turnover costs, but also contributes to greater productivity in society, fosters innovation, and allows for better market products and services by utilizing the unique perspectives and insights of disabled employees.
Deep dives
High rate of disability under-reporting in the workforce
Most companies report a 4-7% disability rate within their workforce. However, new research from BCG indicates that the true percentage is much higher, with 25% of workers globally identifying as having a disability or medical condition that limits a major life activity. This under-reporting has significant implications for both individuals and businesses, leading to lower levels of inclusion and worse workplace experiences for those with disabilities. The study also reveals that these gaps can be closed through the implementation of the right strategies and interventions, enabling people with disabilities to have an equally positive work experience as their non-disabled peers.
Reasons for the disparity in disability reporting
Several factors contribute to the disparity between the reported and actual disability rates. Disability has been less emphasized compared to other aspects of diversity, and companies have not provided sufficient incentives for individuals to self-disclose their disabilities. Fear of discrimination and negative career consequences discourages employees from sharing their conditions, leading to a negative experience and reduced job performance. Furthermore, the aging population in industrial societies highlights the need for organizations to address disability inclusivity as the likelihood of acquiring disabilities increases with age.
Benefits of disability inclusion for businesses and society
Creating an inclusive work environment that accommodates disabilities has multiple benefits for companies. By providing support and accommodations, businesses can improve employee productivity, reduce turnover costs, and create a positive reputation as an inclusive employer. From a societal perspective, the inclusion of disabled individuals in the workforce contributes to greater productivity and reduces reliance on government benefits. Moreover, companies that prioritize disability inclusion foster innovation and better market products and services by utilizing the unique perspectives and insights of disabled employees.
Most companies have no idea how many of their employees live with a disability. Most organizations report 4-7%, but BCG research says it’s much higher—25%. And that percentage is only going to climb as the workforce ages. Brad Loftus and Hillary Wool are both high-performing consultants who live with disabilities. They discuss why companies are so misinformed and explore how leaders can provide reasonable and cost-effective accommodations—and increase inclusion and retention.