In recent years, there has been an increased focus on inclusivity in the construction sector. This has been driven largely by the worldwide movements of #MeToo and #BlackLivesMatter, which have called on businesses to reevaluate their practices and create more inclusive workspaces. As a result, numerous construction firms have implemented policies and initiatives aimed at promoting equality, as well as building a workforce that reflects the diversity of the societies in which they operate.
The Growing Emphasis on Diversity and Inclusion in the Construction Industry
By embracing diversity, companies within the construction industry are fostering positive work environments and experiencing several benefits associated with a more varied team, including creativity, innovation, and improved problem-solving capabilities.
Addressing the Issue of Unconscious Bias and Microaggressions
Emma Porter, the managing director of UK-based contractor Story Contracting, offers an example of how her company is tackling these challenges in order to become a more welcoming employer. She acknowledges that certain practices, such as an unnecessarily early start time, can inadvertently create barriers for individuals with childcare responsibilities. To address this issue, Story Contracting decided to adjust its start time to offer a more flexible schedule for employees with such commitments. This change has resulted in not only better work-life balance for existing staff but also greater opportunities to attract a wider pool of potential talent with diverse backgrounds and experiences.
Porter stresses the importance of eliminating microaggressions in the workplace, which can create a “horrible black fog of unconscious bias” and make life difficult for women and other marginalized groups in the construction field. Open conversations and education on recognizing and preventing these instances of microaggression are crucial for fostering a more inclusive and supportive work environment, ultimately contributing to a stronger, more competitive construction industry.
Story Contracting’s Commitment to Promoting Diversity and Inclusion
In its ongoing efforts to champion diversity and inclusion, Story Contracting launched a new program aimed at making the company more appealing to people from various backgrounds. This innovative program focuses on creating a more welcoming environment by providing comprehensive training sessions to employees, adopting targeted recruitment strategies, and fostering a culture of respect and understanding among staff members. By actively addressing the challenges faced by underrepresented groups and supporting their growth within the company, Story Contracting aspires to become an industry leader in promoting diversity and inclusion.
Welcoming Diverse Viewpoints and Encouraging Innovation
Porter believes that businesses should embrace diverse perspectives in order to better identify and address the issues experienced by their staff. By incorporating a range of viewpoints, companies can create an environment that encourages innovation and effectively tackles complex challenges. Employing a diverse workforce also demonstrates a commitment to inclusivity, which boosts employee satisfaction and ultimately strengthens the organization’s overall performance.
Global Adoption of Diversity and Inclusion Programs in the Construction Industry
Construction companies around the world are following suit by introducing and enhancing their own diversity and inclusion initiatives. These programs seek to create equitable and welcoming work environments for individuals regardless of their gender, race, religion, or sexual orientation. In fostering diversity and promoting inclusivity, construction firms not only bolster innovation and productivity, but also reinforce the overall industry as they attract and retain top-level talent.
The Positive Impact of Increasing Representation and Inclusivity in the Construction Sector
This shift toward greater representation and inclusivity in the construction sector is a significant development for the industry as a whole. Companies are better equipped to address the diverse needs and perspectives of employees, creating work environments that are dynamic, adaptable, and collaborative. This progress not only fosters innovation but also propels the construction industry forward, allowing for the creation of structures that cater to a wide range of individuals and communities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is there a growing emphasis on diversity and inclusion in the construction industry?
The construction industry has been influenced by worldwide movements such as #MeToo and #BlackLivesMatter, which prompted businesses to reevaluate their practices and create more inclusive workspaces. Embracing diversity has led to creativity, innovation, and improved problem-solving capabilities within the industry.
What is one example of a company addressing the issue of unconscious bias and microaggressions?
Story Contracting, a UK-based contractor, addresses unconscious bias and microaggressions by adjusting start times for employees with childcare responsibilities and promoting open conversations and education on recognizing and preventing these instances in the workplace.
How is Story Contracting promoting diversity and inclusion?
Story Contracting has launched a program that focuses on creating a more welcoming environment by providing comprehensive training sessions for employees, adopting targeted recruitment strategies, and fostering a culture of respect and understanding among staff members.
Why is it important to have diverse viewpoints in the construction industry?
Diverse perspectives help businesses identify and address the issues experienced by their staff more effectively. By incorporating a range of viewpoints, companies create environments that encourage innovation and tackle complex challenges, which boosts employee satisfaction and strengthens overall performance.
Are other construction companies around the world adopting diversity and inclusion programs?
Yes, construction companies globally are introducing and enhancing their own diversity and inclusion initiatives. These programs aim to create equitable and welcoming work environments for individuals regardless of their gender, race, religion, or sexual orientation, thereby reinforcing the overall industry.
What is the impact of increasing representation and inclusivity in the construction sector?
Greater representation and inclusivity in the construction sector lead to dynamic, adaptable, and collaborative work environments. This progress fosters innovation and propels the construction industry forward, allowing for the creation of structures that cater to a wide range of individuals and communities.
First Reported on: construction-europe.com
Featured Image Credit: Photo by Rifqi Ramadhan; Pexels; Thank you!
