Connecting differences instead of breeding bubbles - neither through uniformity nor exoticism

Article 7 of 10 in the series "Diversity unites business and prosperity"

Togetherness arises when everyone is included. Genuine integration works wonders - and it needs breadth, openness and interaction - neither niche events nor preaching norms.

Cologne, July 10, 2025 - For decades, both visible diversity and inner individuality have been growing in Western societies. This is celebrated by some and opposed by others. While world views clash, politics, society and, above all, companies are dependent on integration: Cohesion and community ensure peace and prosperity. But how?

Who claims Diversity impact? They are already converted

All kinds of offers are supposedly designed to provide information, exchange ideas, offer experience or promote growth. But what do experiential events, themed training, cool campaigns and festivities have in common? They usually reach precisely those audiences that are already interested (i.e. preaching to the converted). In the bubble, enthusiasm is easily enlisted - outside the bubble, traction might be close to zero.

Echo chambers prevent broad integration or diverse community

An imbalance that politicians, activists and agencies underestimate has been growing for a long time: Initiatives generate echo - but no impact. Instead of promoting integration, many activities consolidate existing positions and reinforce segregation and even polarisation. According to diversity and integration researcher Michael Stuber, the focus on followers contributes to this: "Success should not be measured by applause, even if social networks make it seem that way."

Big effort + some commitment = colorful pictures, small impact

The narrow focus on fans characterises both election campaigns and even corporate programmes, at times. Stuber warns "People need affirmation; but business and society need leadership that reaches and engages everyone." In fact, positive impact is only created through inclusion: when teams complement each other. When products reach target groups. And when organisations not only proclaim values, but make them real.

The great togetherness: a mission for attitude and action

Getting there does not require more effort - but more reflection. Anyone planning projects or campaigns must ask themselves: Who is this intended for? Who will feel addressed? Who will feel excluded - and why? You need concepts that involve everyone instead of catering to special interest groups. According to Stuber, this is only possible if "the respective context is properly taken into account."

The 3 top criteria for relevance: Context. Context. Context.

In fact, new analyses show that successful initiatives must be adapted to the respective context (industry, region and, above all, specific corporate culture). Unlike with infrastructure or workflow, well-known companies never consider standard solutions or best practices when it comes to their brand or identity. "Corporate culture is the last remaining differentiating factor and so is the attitude towards diverse markets," says Stuber.

Reading tip: The micro website https://en.michael-stuber.biz succinctly describes how culture and leadership can be used as levers for future viability.

Info box: 10 questions on diversity impact & integration effect

01 Who feels addressed - and who is left cold by the message?
02 Who is regularly involved - and who never is? And why?
03 Does the language appeal to everyone - or e.g. only to academics or to activists?
04 Is diversity presented as a common advantage - or as a concern of individual groups?
05 Do formats offer space for critical perspectives - or only for consent?
06 Do commonalities and goals take center stage - or interests/needs/demands?
07 Is individual development encouraged - or is certain behavior demanded?
08 Are different backgrounds actively invited?
09 Are newcomers welcome - even without prior knowledge or clear positioning?
10 Does the format promote dialogue, insight and development - or is it about broadcasting?

Michael Stuber
Richard-Wagner-Str. 25
D 50674 Koeln / Colonge
office@diversity-consulting.eu

European Diversity stands for evidence-based, internationally experienced DE&I research and consulting with a strategic focus. For over 20 years, Michael Stuber and his team have been developing robust D&I concepts for companies, institutions and organisations. The Engineering D&I approach (https://en.diversitymine.eu) combines analysis, relevance and impact – for tailor-made solutions that harness diversity as economic potential for everyone.

This release was published on openPR.