Build a Culture of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion From the Ground Up
Many industries face significant challenges in achieving diversity and inclusion. Currently, only a small percentage of companies have substantial female representation or individuals from underrepresented racial and ethnic groups. Despite these disparities, there is a recognized need to broaden the talent pool amid a historic labor shortage worsened by recent economic challenges.
The construction industry, long known for its challenges with diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), is making strides towards positive change. Leading the charge are general contractors who are implementing innovative ideas to create a more inclusive workforce. A prime example of this progress is the Time for Change Consortium, a groundbreaking initiative launched in 2021. This consortium focuses on fostering open dialogue and promoting actionable steps across job sites, aiming to make a lasting impact on DEI within the industry.
Central to creating a culture of inclusivity is leadership commitment and accountability at all levels. This involves tangible actions such as defining principles for fair hiring practices, inclusive workplaces free of harassment, eliminating advancement barriers, and empowerment to promote diversity.
Hiring managers need education on topics like unconscious bias and discrimination, emphasizing dialogue and concrete actions to improve job site culture. Additionally, company leaders must engage in community outreach with a DEI focus, highlighting the industry's potential for social impact beyond construction projects.
Looking forward, all major corporations should aim to improve and sustain their efforts, urging greater leadership participation and ongoing commitment to building a more inclusive workforce environment. DaMar Staffing can help companies develop a better approach to fostering a culture of diversity.
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?DaMar Staffing Solutions of Indianapolis is a full-service, contingency-based recruitment firm, focused on administrative and professional staffing for all industries. There are many staffing agencies, but you want a staffing agency that will work for you. With over 20 years of experience, DaMar Staffing Solutions has built a reputation for providing quality service, top-notch professionals, and flexible recruiting solutions for Indiana companies.
President/Executive Recruiter at DaMar Staffing Solutions
8 个月We all have blind spots, so we must actively seek diverse perspectives. Your customers are diverse and have different views on the value of your brand. You should seek nuanced insights to outperform your competition.
President and Creative Director at Promotus Advertising
8 个月I agree; it is clearly a business advantage for those who are truly engaged in building a best-in-class team.
President/Executive Recruiter at DaMar Staffing Solutions
8 个月DaMar doesn’t view DEI as a social justice solution. Our role is to help businesses enhance innovation, understand diverse customer needs, and improve performance. We believe that diverse teams outperform less diverse ones.