Hiring Policies & Procedures That Increase Diversity

Diverse Workforce

Diversity is a number of things that a person embodies. To create a truly diverse workforce, consider more that just a person appearance. While race, gender and age certainly contribute to workplace diversity, religion, philosophy, sexual orientation and nationality are also important contributions.

Recruiting Employees

According to the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, an employer that wants to increase diversity should examine their employees and assess where the company lacks diversity. Then it should figure out how to broadcast job opportunities to the desired population.

Hiring Qualifications

An employer should look only at a potential new hire based on his or her qualifications. That said, an employer looking to increase workforce diversity may consider changing  hiring requirements if homogeneous groups are consistently applying for the same jobs. For instance, an employer may consider substituting additional work experience in place of a four-year college degree, as this might help recruit population segments with lesser opportunities to attend college.

Creating a Culture

Employers that want to attract a diverse workforce need to create a culture that values diversity. In a Charlotte Business Journal article titled "Promote Diversity in the Workplace experts first recommend examining company policies, such as training programs and performance evaluations, for unintended biases. Then appoint someone to create and oversee programs that emphasize equality and open communication. Implement networking and mentoring programs that allow workers to be comfortable and vocal about their needs. Also, avoid preferential treatment, as it creates resentment.

Affirmative Action

Affirmative action is another tool that can increase the diversity of the workplace, although it is subjective to the law. Affirmative Action is defined by law ;actions appropriate to overcome the effects of past or present practices, policies, or other barriers to equal employment opportunity. An employer may decide to create a voluntary affirmative action program if the company thinks there is a longstanding imbalance in a specific job category. To ensure the legality of the program, a court will examine the company quotas and goals, and determine whether it interferes with equal employment practices. It is important to pay close attention to legal requirements when implementing and running affirmative action programs.

References:

Quirk, B. (Jul 28, 2008). Promote diversity in the workplace. Charlotte Business Journal, 3