Diversity and inclusion are not interchangeable terms. Diversity within an organization without inclusion is just many different people in the same place at the same time with no engagement or connection. Most of us will know that diverse hiring is hiring with special care to ensure procedures (like hiring) are free from biases related to a candidate’s culture, ethnicity, gender, religion, age, physical cognitive ability, veteran status, or any other difference seen or unseen that makes each of us unique. A diverse organization that is also inclusive is continually seeking ways to ensure all team members’ opinions are heard, that their unique perspectives are valued, and that they belong to one cohesive unit.
Everyone has unique characteristics that set them apart from the crowd, but not everyone has to deal with exclusion or discrimination. Furthermore, individuals themselves are not “diverse”. By labelling an individual “diverse”, you are, as a result, implying that a “default” or “norm” exists as a dominant identity. Diversity instead must be looked at as something that can only exist relationally within a group. A diverse group will be composed of people from many different backgrounds. A diverse and inclusive group can achieve equity by recognizing that some underrepresented groups have to overcome more barriers and have less access to opportunities than more dominant groups. A company must actively seek out ways to reduce barriers in order to create an even playing field for all potential candidates or current team members.
The killing of George Floyd and subsequent Black Lives Matter protests and rallies have been the catalyst for many companies around the world to recommit to DEI (diversity, equity, and inclusion) practices and policies. While this is a positive step forward, it’s imperative that businesses take into account the difference between performative and active allyship. There is both a moral and business case for businesses to incorporate more diverse and inclusive hiring processes.
It is important that hiring managers understand how their hiring practices may be biased, and exactly what steps they can take (tools and technologies included) to tackle discrimination, enable equality, and foster belonging in the hiring process and beyond.
Robert Walters is committed to doing our part to build a more sustainable future – not just in our own communities, but in those further afield, as well. That’s why, since 2017, we’ve worked with the Global Angels Foundation to help transform the lives of people living in the Tsavo region of souther
Read MoreThe work environment is changing. Advances in technology, a shift in generation and changes in the way companies do business has driven the need and demand for a new kind of workplace. These factors have led to the rise of the “smart workplace”. A whitepaper from Robert Walters, Greater China reveal
Read MoreThe impact of the global pandemic has impacted individuals and communities in different – and unequal – ways. The careers of older workers and younger workers are significantly more likely to have been impacted than the overall working population. The number of older workers has been increasing over
Read MoreCome join our global team of creative thinkers, problem solvers and game changers. We offer accelerated career progression, a dynamic culture and expert training.