Making Diversity and Inclusion easy for SMEs

[edit] CIOB Technical Information Sheet; a tool for companies with limited resources

In June CIOB academy published their first Diversity and Inclusion Technical Information Sheet (D&I TIS). Here is a personal description of the D&I discourse in practice, how the TIS can help the implementation of D&I and the benefits of doing so, written by Elena Dove-Edwin, EDI Project Officer at CIOB.

'It’s great to be part of an organisation that works to enhance the sector by encouraging inclusive practices. We decided it was important to develop this document to provide a tool aimed at SMEs with limited resources. Some of our members mentioned feeling left out of D&I discourse, as discussion and resources often focus on larger organisations. We always aim to listen to our members and tailor our work to suit their needs, therefore ensured our step-by-step guide focused on exploring just how much is achievable for SMEs.'

'Through the TIS we’re aiming to make implementing D&I easier and to gather in one place all the key information a company needs to begin implementing D&I. D&I can seem like a vast and confusing topic, but our TIS breaks it down into clear sections, step-by-step processes, definitions and resources to simplify it. The TIS also features case studies to illustrate how best practice can be adapted to a real-world context.'

'Through the D&I TIS we’re also aiming to spread best practice across the sector and encourage more organisations to invest in D&I. At CIOB we champion D&I not only because we feel it’s the right thing to do, but also because we are an organisation charged with acting in the public benefit, and fostering a diverse and inclusive construction industry is certainly in the public benefit. D&I enhances the built environment sector and ensures a prosperous future by increasing attraction, retention and employee satisfaction and it’s been proven that diverse companies are more financially successful.'

'The TIS will be beneficial for those wanting to implement D&I but are unsure where to start, as well as those who are looking for some guidance and new inspiration. The D&I TIS is free to CIOB members, so make sure to download your copy!'

[edit] CIOB Diversity and Inclusion technical Information sheet

A commitment to diversity and inclusion can better enable organisations to thrive and compete commercially. Adopting D&I strategies fosters a more diverse workplace that is more creative and responsive, which can lead to greater financial success for an organisation.

This technical information sheet is designed as a step-by-step guide on how an organisation can implement D&I practices into its business. This will be particularly useful for smaller organisations that do not have a dedicated D&I resource. Nevertheless, the recommendations and case studies in this document are scalable and are also relevant to those currently working in D&I.

This document aims to give practical advice, whilst also contextualising the recommendations to share best practice, knowledge and increase understanding around D&I.

[edit] Contents

• Definitions
• Introduction
• The business case for D&I
• Regional considerations
• The importance of senior leadership
• Creating an action plan
• Data collection and analysis – the foundation for progress
• Best practice in recruitment
• Ensuring an inclusive workplace culture
• The benefits of benchmarking and knowledge-sharing

The technical information sheet is available here.

[edit] About the Author

Elena Dove-Edwin is the EDI Project Officer at the CIOB. As part of CIOB’s EDI team, Elena specialises in diversity and inclusion within the built environment sector. Focusing on spreading best practice, as well as knowledge and awareness of the value of a commitment to D&I, across the sector. Elena has previous experience working in D&I within the Civil Service and is a Law graduate from the University of Birmingham.

[edit] Sign the CIOB Diversity & Inclusion Charter

Discover the Vital Role of D&I in the Built Environment Sector’s Survival and Success.

Our Special Report of Diversity and Inclusion sets out the business case and provides excellent examples of best practice from around the globe. These examples are aligned to each of the Charter’s five key commitments, helping you to understand how you can make progress on this critical agenda.

“While some construction organisations have advanced quite far along the path to diversity and inclusion, and are starting to see results, it is important to keep in mind that every organisation begins where they are.”

Join us in championing equality, diversity, and inclusion by signing up to our charter - your commitment makes all the difference!

Sign the Diversity & Inclusion Charter here.

--CIOB

[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings

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