Diversity and Inclusion (D&I)

Definition

Initiatives aimed at ensuring workplace representation of varied backgrounds and creating an inclusive environment—often a checkbox exercise with minimal structural change.

Example Usage

Our D&I initiative included a training day and updated our website photos; problem solved!

Origin

Modern HR terminology, formalized since the 1990s

Fun Fact

Companies with above-average diversity see 22% lower turnover rates but still struggle with actual inclusion.

Source: Diversity management and organizational inclusion research

Related Terms

Advanced

normalized attrition

The expected, healthy turnover rate for an organization based on industry benchmarks and retirement patterns, as opposed to problematic attrition. It's HR's way of saying 'some quitting is fine, actually.'

👥 Human Resources

Intermediate

lump sum increase

A one-time payment rather than a permanent salary increase, letting companies reward employees without committing to higher ongoing costs. It's like getting a bonus disguised as a raise—exciting today, forgotten tomorrow.

👥 Human Resources

Intermediate

exploitation

The corporate art of extracting maximum value from resources (read: humans) while providing minimum compensation or recognition. Often disguised with terms like 'opportunity' or 'exposure.' The uncomfortable truth behind many 'entry-level' positions and unpaid internships.

👥 Human Resources

Beginner

seat warmer

An employee who occupies a position without adding meaningful value—essentially a human placeholder who excels at looking busy while accomplishing nothing. They've mastered the art of organizational camouflage.

👥 Human Resources

Intermediate

invisible promotion

When employees receive expanded responsibilities, fancier titles, or 'growth opportunities' without corresponding salary increases. It's all the work of a promotion with none of the compensation—essentially a scam with business cards.

👥 Human Resources

Intermediate

forced ranking

A performance management system requiring managers to rank employees against each other and place them into predetermined categories, typically firing the bottom performers. Jack Welch's gift to corporate culture, also known as 'rank and yank.'

👥 Human Resources

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