Diversity and equality in the workplace - the right thing to do for driving your business forward.
There’s been a terrific response by readers of Northern Insight magazine to the articles by North East based Executive Search company Castle Peak Group regarding diversity in the workplace.
The research, led by the company’s CEO James Carss, focussed on the housing sector for the simple reason that Castle Peak Group are experts when it comes to filling executive positions within that industry…but…much of the research applies to other fields such as technology, manufacturing, finance, law, HR, sales, transportation etc.
In other words, if you have a business which employs people, this research will apply to you.
“It’s been hugely gratifying to hear from businesses of all shapes and sizes and read about their response to the research,” says James. “One comment was why the research had concentrated on executive and board level personnel? Simple…those people will be the decision-makers within that particular business. They will be the leaders that everyone will look up to in terms of guidance but also for setting an example of what’s right.
“But I fully understand why that comment was made by a reader because they’re also right to suggest that everyone should be aware of diversity to ensure equality and inclusivity in the workplace. It’s become something of a catchphrase here at Castle Peak Group…diversity isn’t just the right thing to do, it’s good for business.”
And the research backs that up because a diverse company can flourish. A diverse board or team of executives from different backgrounds brings a wealth of experiences together which can lead to better decision making. Link that to a trickle-down effect within the workforce and you will find that your business becomes recognised as being wholly inclusive which is something many clients and suppliers will be looking for when they decide who they want to work and be associated with.
“Something which our research uncovered was that, although progress is being made in certain areas of inclusivity, other areas are proving more difficult to improve.
Take disability for example. It is significantly under-represented, with just 9% of the housing sector’s workforce having a disability, compared to 24% of the UK population and 29% of housing sector residents. Of course, these figures won’t be replicated in other industries, but it is something that business leaders need to consider.
“It’s a similar story when it comes to class within the workplace. The role of class is an under-appreciated one, and different socioeconomic backgrounds can provide the diversity of thought which improves performance. I heard a phrase recently that the opposite of poverty is community. There is power in bringing a community together. It’s a smaller world than it ever has been and the diversity is greater than ever.”
Equality and inclusivity in the workplace is something every business should consider. Yes, you may need to make alterations to how your business operates but, in the long run, it will be hugely beneficial in both how your business is viewed and by encouraging a workplace environment where everyone feels valued.
If you’d like information on how to take your business forward via proper recruitment or would like Castle Peak Group to help with your recruitment plans, contact James Carss directly on 07802 531040 or emailing info@ castlepeak-group.com
You’ll also read about the research and what Castle Peak Group can do for you by logging on to www.castlepeak-group.com