Whether it's through the chance to lead a project, get a promotion, speak at an event, or receive rewards and recognition, employers who provide opportunities to showcase all employees increase employee engagement. Employees at every stage of their career are assured and energized when they see someone who looks like them in a position they aspire to, given every opportunity to succeed.

As Vice President of Talent Management at University of Phoenix, I have spent a lot of time observing how a company can spotlight its commitment to a diverse workplace to show they implement these not only enthusiastically, but also visibly: highlighting programs so employees can benefit from them directly as well as witnessing these programs in action. This enthusiasm elevates compliance to something more invaluable—and that can make the difference between a company simply being a place to work to being an employer of choice.