Can an MBA help build a more inclusive workplace?

When you hear the word inclusion, what comes to mind first? Is it greater openness to neurodivergent talents? Or support for mothers returning to work? In 2025, inclusion in the workplace is no longer just a “nice to have.” Inclusivity trend is growing across European countries. It’s a strategic priority for companies: whether for innovation, reputation, or the war for talent.

This brings us to the question: how can an MBA contribute to inclusive workplace practices – and how can it empower individuals? Let’s take a closer look.

TIP! According to the European Institute for Gender Equality, only 34% of board seats in European companies are held by women. Back in 2022, the average was just 30.7%.

More women in leadership – but the glass ceiling still holds

While the representation of women in leadership roles is growing steadily, the glass ceiling still exists. Even across Europe, women often struggle to reach top executive positions:

• 34% of board members in Europe’s largest companies are women (up from 28% in 2019),
• Only 10–12% of CEOs are women,
• 38% of managerial roles are held by women, with Nordic countries leading the way.
  

A positive development? The EU has introduced binding gender balance quotas, aiming for at least 40% of board positions to be filled by the underrepresented sex.

TIP! Want to lead a team or step into a leadership role? Explore the Effective MBA in Executive Management and Leadership.

An MBA that empowers where it’s most needed

Many people don’t pursue an MBA for prestige – they do it for confidence, job security, and better opportunities. And that’s especially true for those who face more challenges in their careers: women, parents, minorities, and neurodivergent individuals.

• Stress-Free, Accessible Education

At EDU Effective, our MBA programs are 100% online. You study without deadlines, at your own pace – on your phone, on the way to work, or late in the evening.

Thanks to our microlearning method, you only need 15 minutes a day to make progress.

This format is ideal for parents on leave, professionals with demanding jobs, or anyone who needs flexibility and affordability.

• Skills That Make a Real Difference

You’ll gain practical knowledge in leadership, management, HR, marketing, data analytics – the very skills that modern inclusive workplaces are looking for. And you can apply what you learn immediately.

TIP! According to the Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC), over 75% of MBA graduates are promoted during their careers

• A Community That Has Your Back

Our students join a supportive, international community of learners from over 89 countries. Through Alumni+ groups and networking spaces, you’ll build meaningful connections and discover new opportunities.

Neurodiversity – a hidden talent pool?

Neurodivergent individuals often think and process the world differently. This unique perspective can drive innovation, creativity, and problem-solving. Yet their talents are frequently overlooked in the job market.

Forward-thinking companies like SAP, EY, and Microsoft have launched targeted initiatives to support neurodiversity in the workplace.

A study by Harvard Business Review shows that neurodiverse teams can improve productivity, creativity, and complex problem-solving.

However, to unlock this potential, these professionals need workplaces that understand and support them. An MBA can be a powerful step toward self-confidence, leadership readiness, and thriving in a role that values your thinking style – however unique it may be.

TIP! Did you know EDU Effective offers a 30-day DEMO? You can try the studies without the necessity of adding your credit card information.

How does EDU Effective make a difference?

At EDU Effective, we believe education should not only transform careers – it should also transform lives.

That’s why we donate part of every tuition fee to charity. For each student who successfully completes their program, a portion of their tuition is redirected to support charitable causes of their choice.

In 2024 alone, our students and graduates have helped us donate nearly €18 000 to non-profit organizations – and that number keeps growing.

When you study with us, you’re not just investing in yourself – you’re helping build a fairer, more inclusive world. Whatever MBA specialization you choose, you gain more than skills. You gain purpose.

Sources:

• https://eige.europa.eu/gender-equality-index/2024
• https://hbr.org/2017/05/neurodiversity-as-a-competitive-advantage
• https://ec.europa.eu/eurostat/cache/infographs/womenmen_2021/bloc-2c.html
• https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/diversity/inside-microsoft/cross-disability/hiring.aspx