Diversity and inclusion are more than just industry buzzwords — they are essential for creating a dynamic, innovative, and productive workplace. For the construction industry, fostering a diverse workforce is also becoming increasingly critical for compliance with Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) standards — particularly the Social (S) component. Construction businesses prioritising diversity demonstrate a commitment to social responsibility, which can enhance their reputation and attract socially conscious investors, clients, and partners.
What Does a Diverse Workplace Culture Look Like?
The Equality Act 2010 makes it illegal to discriminate against individuals based on these “protected characteristics.” However, fostering a diverse workplace culture goes beyond merely complying with the law; it requires active efforts to ensure everyone has equal opportunities and feels valued.
In construction, promoting diversity means implementing policies that encourage equal hiring practices and cultivating a company culture that values inclusivity. This approach involves rethinking recruitment strategies, creating an inclusive work environment, and ensuring diversity is embedded in the company’s values and everyday practices.
The Current State of Diversity in Construction
The construction industry has a long way to go in achieving true diversity. Recent studies reveal that only 5.4% of workers in the UK construction sector come from Black, Asian, and Minority Ethnic (BAME) backgrounds. Women are also underrepresented in the industry, accounting for just 15.8% of the workforce from April-June 2023. This lack of diversity not only reflects broader societal inequalities but also limits the industry’s potential.
The Benefits of Diversity in the Construction Industry
- Addressing the Skills Shortage: The construction sector faces a growing skills shortage. By broadening recruitment efforts to include diverse candidates, companies can access a larger talent pool and find new ways to meet this challenge. This strategy helps fill gaps in the workforce and brings fresh perspectives and skills to the industry.
- Enhancing Decision-Making: Research shows that diverse teams outperform homogeneous ones in decision-making 87% of the time. The varied perspectives in diverse groups lead to more thorough analysis and innovative solutions, which are vital in the dynamic environment of construction.
- Boosting Productivity and Retention: An inclusive workplace promotes collaboration and mutual respect among employees, leading to increased productivity and job satisfaction. When employees feel valued and included, they are more likely to stay with the company, reducing turnover rates and associated costs.
- Improving Reputation and Competitive Edge: Companies that prioritise diversity and inclusion enhance their reputation among clients, contractors, and the community.
Strategies to Promote Diversity in Construction Hiring
- Revise Hiring Practices: To promote diversity, companies need to evaluate and adjust their current hiring practices. Traditional recruitment methods, such as word-of-mouth or relying on existing networks, often limit diversity. Instead, companies should expand their recruitment efforts to reach a broader and more diverse audience. Partnering with organisations that support underrepresented groups or participating in diverse job fairs can help attract a wider range of candidates.
- Provide Diversity Training and Education: Education is crucial for fostering an inclusive culture. Training sessions for management and staff on diversity, unconscious bias, and inclusivity can help reduce discrimination and build understanding. Encouraging a “No Bystander” policy, where employees speak up against discriminatory behaviour, also promotes a more inclusive work environment.
- Develop Mentorship Programs and Support Networks: Mentorship programs are an effective way to promote diversity and inclusion. Pairing new hires with experienced mentors helps build relationships and provides support, especially for minority employees who might feel isolated. These programs create a supportive network that helps retain diverse talent and fosters an inclusive workplace culture.
- Regularly Review and Update Policies: Companies should regularly review their diversity policies to ensure they are effective and aligned with best practices. This includes assessing company culture, conducting employee surveys, and staying informed about the latest developments in diversity and inclusion.
Improving diversity in construction hiring is about more than just meeting legal requirements — it’s about recognising the value that a diverse workforce brings to the table. By actively promoting diversity, construction companies can enhance their competitive edge, foster innovation, and create a more productive and harmonious workplace.
Author: Alex Minett
Alex Minett is the Head of Global New Markets at Veriforce CHAS, the UK’s leading health and safety assessment scheme and provider of risk mitigation, compliance, and supply chain management services. With a working history in the audit and management consulting industry, Alex is experienced in implementing visions and strategies. Skilled in negotiation, management and business development, he is passionate about driving CHAS in its mission to safeguard organisations from risk in the UK.
LinkedIn: Alex Minett
