Speaking Up: Professionals Weigh in on Sharing Opinions at Work in Hudson RPO Survey

Tampa, Fla, Dec. 5, 2024 —When it comes to sharing thoughts in the workplace, a new Hudson RPO survey shows that the majority of professionals feel that “mum” is the word.

In the survey, more than half (56%) of professionals say they do not feel comfortable expressing their opinions and ideas at work without fear of discrimination or bias.

“Stifling workers’ ability to share their thoughts degrades engagement and hampers innovation and out-of-the-box decision making,” said Hudson RPO CEO Jake Zabkowicz. “While it’s obvious that everyone won’t have the same opinions on a given issue, bringing different ideas to the table will bring insights and new ways of problem solving.”

The survey, which focuses on diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging (DEIB) shows respondents are split when asked whether people with diverse backgrounds have equal opportunity for advancement within their organization (54% said yes, 46% said no).

“Some organizations may feel they have made great strides in celebrating the differences of people in the workplace, and they may have, but communication is key to making employees know their opinions are valued and acted upon,” said Zabkowicz.

In reflecting on the social unrest of 2020, respondents say strides have been made since then, with 40% saying that there is much more of a focus on DEIB today than during that period.

The survey again points to the need for clear communication, as 50% say they don’t know if their organization has stated DEIB goals. Of the respondents who say their organization has stated DEIB goals, more than half (56%) say those goals are a focus and are being achieved.

“Diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging efforts must be woven into all aspects of an organization, from employees to customers, vendors and the general public,” said Zabkowicz. “A ‘one and done’ approach may serve as a band aid to achieve short-term goals, but lasting change requires ongoing focus and engagement.”

About the Survey:

The Hudson RPO survey of 824 respondents took place in November 2024.

Survey results

Compared to 2020 how much of a focus on DEIB do organizations have today?

• Much less than 2020: 33%
• About the same as 2020: 27%
• Much more than 2020: 40%

Do you feel comfortable expressing your opinions and ideas at work without fear of discrimination or bias?

• Yes: 44%
• No: 56%

Do you believe that people from diverse backgrounds have equal opportunities for advancement within your organization?

• Yes: 54%
• No: 46%

Does your company require a diverse candidate pool during the recruitment process?

• Yes: 39%
• No: 61%

Does your organization have stated DE&I goals?

• Yes: 50%
• I don’t know: 50%
• No: 0%

Does your organization follow through on steps to achieve stated DE&I goals?

• Yes to a great extent: 20%
• Yes to some extent: 36%
• No: 20%
• We don’t have stated DE&I goals: 24%