When looking for the best people to hire for your company, diversity is well worth focusing on. Great construction managers seek out a broader talent pool because they understand that a diverse group of people produces a diverse range of ideas and viewpoints.
Different Types of Diversity to Consider
There are various types of diversity that can be considered. Age, ethnicity, race, sexual orientation, and gender are examples that would spring to mind for most people. However, astute construction management recognises that this is not the only sort of diversity they should be looking for. Employees with foreign work experience, or those with a distinctive professional path, field of study, or industry background can all contribute to the diversity of a team.
The Benefits of Diversity in the Workplace
The link between diversity and innovation is based on the different perspectives that a more varied team might bring to the table. Due to the assorted histories of each employee, there are likely to be multiple viewpoints voiced during each conversation. This encourages people to share their thoughts rather than simply accepting what the first person says.
When this is combined with inclusivity, your staff is more likely to share their thoughts. At the very least, this means that great ideas aren't stuck in the heads of employees. Furthermore, knowing that they can work collaboratively may encourage your staff to think innovatively so that they feel like they are a valued member of the team. In essence, supporting inclusivity promotes innovation and creativity.
By getting used to hearing fresh ideas and coming up with creative solutions together, a diverse team is more likely identify industry advancements and unmet market needs that your company can fill.
What Does Diversity Look Like within a Construction Team?
Some areas of diversity are universal. For example, regardless of the sector, you want to hire people from a variety of backgrounds and cultures. Parts of a diverse perspective can also be specific to your industry.
Diverse viewpoints in construction can include those who are familiar with new technology. It could include people who are familiar with new market segments and the construction requirements they are likely to have. It could also be people who are aware of new delivery methods.
Best Practices for Increasing Innovation Through Diversity
Simply focusing your construction recruiting efforts on hiring a diverse team will not be enough to tap into the innovation that diversity brings. You must ensure that the diversity applies to viewpoints as well. You must also guarantee that the culture is welcoming and supportive of diversity. Furthermore, you must have an innovation framework in place that encourages your employees to be creative and innovative.
How to Encourage Diverse Perspectives within Your Team
in order to encourage various perspectives don't focus all your construction recruiting efforts on one type of person. Look for individuals who have followed different educational programs or who don't have the typical construction experience.
You can also encourage your current employees to broaden their horizons. This can be accomplished through providing ongoing training and CPD opportunities and encouraging skill sharing.
How can we help?
Are you ready to progress your career in an exciting new role? Before you do anything contact our team of industry experts for a confidential chat and advice. getus@jamesgrayengineering.com
