Diversity in the workplace
Diversity is a broad concept, covering gender, skin colour or training for instance. In essence, what does it mean? Equal opportunities for everyone, at the recruitment stage as well as in the workplace. If your organisation implements a successful diversity plan, it can obtain a diversity label.
4 advantages
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More talent: by opening your doors to new target groups, you reach more potential candidates.
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More creativity: people with different backgrounds increase the level of creativity in your organisation.
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Internationalization: language skills and understanding foreign cultures can be very useful in a globalized world.
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Reputation: practicing socially responsible entrepreneurship is likely to increase your brand’s prestige, leading to loyal employees and customers.
A diversity plan through Brussels Employment Office Actiris
Signing the declaration of intent (FR) of the Brussels-Capital Region is the first step in developing diversity in your company. This means that you are officially part of a network of diversity organisations and have access to advice and guidance from Actiris' diversity consultants.
A diversity plan (FR) describes the current diversity policy and formulates objectives and actions to increase the diversity within your organisation. The plan runs for 2 years and covers the following domains:
- Recruitment and selection
- Staff management
- Internal communication and awareness
- External positioning
Need help? The consultants of the Actiris Diversity Service will guide you every step of the way: from putting the working group together to the final evaluation. The financial support (up to 10,000 euros) is yet another incentive.
The icing on the cake: a diversity label
If the assessment of your diversity plan is positive, you can apply for a diversity label (FR). From the moment Actiris has given its consent, your company will be able to use the label for 2 years in all internal and external communications.
Conclusion
If you select staff based on their competences, regardless of gender, age, sexual preference, background, and so on, you definitely have an edge. Recognising and appreciating differences between people creates new opportunities for employees and employers alike. If you don’t know where to start, ask Actiris for assistance. Who knows, your company may soon obtain a diversity label.
