Addressing diversity and inclusion in the construction industry
SMACNA Greater Chicago is committed to helping members reach their goals while elevating the sheet metal industry. As diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) becomes more relevant in our world, we support the drive for increased diversity and inclusion in the workplace as a solid business strategy.
Why? Because investing in diversity is good for your bottom line. According to a Boston Consulting Group study, companies with more diverse management teams have 19% higher revenues due to innovation. Although most companies tend to focus on racial and gender diversity, it’s about so much more than that — including better representation of different backgrounds, experiences, perspectives and education.
Unfortunately, it seems the construction industry is notorious for lagging behind other industries in things like the adoption of technology, recruitment and, most recently, DEI. In fact, the Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that only 9.9% of construction professionals are women, 30.7% are Hispanic or Latino, 6.2% are black and only 2% are Asian.
Nobody wants to be talked at or lectured, but statistics continually show the importance of a diverse, inclusive company culture in the form of better employee engagement, increased innovation and measurable financial returns. Fortunately, there are small changes companies can implement today that can yield big results.
Get buy-in across all levels
It’s important that everyone from new hires to executives are all on board with fostering a diverse, inclusive and safe company culture. Start at the ground level with a company orientation for new employees, and offer continuing DEI classes and refresher courses for existing employees. Promote DEI and inclusion in your internal company newsletter if you have one.
Enact a diversity committee or focus groups
Be sure to give a voice to the very people you’re trying to recruit and retain — those of varying races, genders, ages and experiences. This group will be invaluable as your company develops and promotes diversity and inclusion initiatives.
Spread awareness
Use visual aids throughout your company and jobsites that promote accountability and condemn all types of discrimination in the workplace. Strategic placement of posters and other graphics will help keep DEI top of mind.
Hire a diversity consultant
These experts can help assess your current company culture and goals, and deliver data-based recommendations on how to better define and reach your goals. Finding a partner in a skilled diversity consultant can prove beneficial in your company’s DEI outcomes.
These are just a few of the countless ways SMACNA Greater Chicago members can begin (or continue) to align themselves with a more diverse, equitable and inclusive company culture. Everyone deserves to feel safe at work, and we’re part of creating and upholding a safe environment, free from harassment.