Recently, workplaces have been giving a lot of attention to diversity and inclusion (D&I). Businesses are realizing the importance of actively seeking out and working with a diverse group of people for various reasons, and they’re educating their workforces about D&I to explain why it’s necessary and beneficial. The construction industry, which has historically been homogeneous, is also joining this trend. In fact, it may even be eagerly embracing D&I programs.
Why is diversity important in construction?
Construction companies are always striving for success, and diversity is a key ingredient for achieving it. A diverse team brings fresh ideas to the table, leading to better decision-making and improved productivity. In an industry that thrives on innovation and creativity, having a team that reflects a variety of backgrounds and experiences can lead to breakthrough solutions and game-changing improvements. It’s no wonder that construction companies with diverse and inclusive workforces tend to do better financially – they’re tapping into a wider pool of talent and ideas.
According to a study by McKinsey & Company, companies in the top quartile for ethnic and cultural diversity are 36% more likely to have financial returns above their industry average. Another study by Boston Consulting Group found that companies with more diverse management teams have 19% higher revenue due to innovation. So if you want to succeed in construction, diversity isn’t just a buzzword – it’s a necessity!
Perks of Hiring A Diverse Construction Workforce
Here are a few examples of how a diverse construction workforce can bring benefits to your company:
Innovation in design: A diverse team can bring a variety of perspectives to the design process, leading to more innovative and creative building designs. For example, a team with diverse cultural backgrounds might draw on different architectural styles or building materials that can make a project stand out.
Better problem-solving on the job site: A diverse team can also bring different skill sets and experiences to the job site, allowing for better problem-solving in real-time. For instance, a team with both experienced and new workers from different backgrounds can draw on a range of knowledge and expertise to quickly resolve unexpected issues.
Improved communication with clients: A diverse workforce can help improve communication with clients who come from different backgrounds. Having employees who can speak multiple languages or who have experience working with different cultures can help build rapport and trust with clients, leading to more successful projects and stronger client relationships.
Enhanced safety protocols: A diverse workforce can also bring a range of safety perspectives and experiences to the job site. For instance, employees with disabilities or who come from different cultures may have unique safety needs or concerns that need to be addressed. By incorporating these perspectives into safety protocols, you can create a safer and more inclusive work environment for everyone.
These are just a few examples of how a diverse construction workforce can bring benefits to your company. By embracing diversity and creating an inclusive work environment, you can foster a culture of creativity, collaboration, and success in the construction industry.
Successful Diversity Initiatives in Construction
Case Study #1: Turner Construction’s 2030 Vision for Diversity and Inclusion
Turner Construction is a leading international construction services company in the United States that recognizes the importance of diversity and inclusion in the workplace. In 2020, the company announced its 2030 Vision, a comprehensive plan aimed at achieving equitable representation at all levels of the company and reflecting the diverse communities in which it operates.
To achieve this vision, Turner Construction is committed to fostering a cultural shift within the company by building a workplace that values and respects diversity and inclusivity. This shift is necessary to promote a more diverse and equitable workplace where all employees feel valued and have a sense of belonging.
The company understands that providing equal opportunities for all employees to pursue a meaningful career within the company, regardless of their race, gender, sexual orientation, or other factors, is critical. Turner Construction’s commitment to promoting diversity and inclusion is reflected in its recruitment, training, and development practices, as well as its efforts to create a more diverse and inclusive workplace culture.
One of the ways Turner Construction is working towards achieving its 2030 Vision is through its Diversity and Inclusion Council. The council is responsible for setting strategic goals and initiatives that promote diversity and inclusion throughout the company. The council is made up of a diverse group of employees who are passionate about creating a more inclusive workplace and driving positive change in the broader construction industry.
The company has also established various employee resource groups (ERGs), which are organized around different diversity and inclusion themes. These ERGs provide employees with opportunities to connect with each other, share experiences, and work together on initiatives that promote inclusion and diversity within the company and the broader community.
Turner Construction’s commitment to promoting diversity and inclusion is not limited to its internal operations. The company also works with external partners and suppliers who share its values to drive positive change in the broader construction industry. For example, the company has partnered with organizations that promote diversity in construction, such as the National Association of Women in Construction and the National Minority Supplier Development Council.
Overall, Turner Construction’s 2030 Vision represents a significant step towards building a more equitable and inclusive workplace, not only within the company but also in the broader construction industry. By promoting diversity and inclusion, the company can better reflect the communities it serves and help drive positive change in society.
Case Study #2: Skanska’s Commitment to Inclusion and Diversity
Skanska is a leading construction and project development group operating in Europe and North America. The company recognizes the importance of diversity and inclusion in the workplace and is committed to promoting these values within its workforce.
To attract, recruit, and advance diverse talent, Skanska has implemented various initiatives. The company partners with diversity-focused organizations and participates in job fairs and networking events to reach a more diverse pool of candidates. Skanska also provides diversity and inclusion training to its employees to ensure that everyone understands the value of creating an inclusive workplace.
To ensure that inclusion and diversity remain a top priority, Skanska actively monitors its progress through its annual employee survey. The survey assesses the company’s diversity and inclusion efforts and identifies areas where improvements can be made. Skanska also tracks aspects of diversity such as ethnicity, disability, or age, as definitions, legal requirements, and restrictions vary from country to country.
Skanska’s commitment to inclusion and diversity is reflected in its policies and practices. The company does not tolerate discrimination based on social background, ethnicity, disability, gender, age, religion, sexual orientation, or any other protected characteristic. Skanska strives to create a workplace that is free from harassment and bullying and has a zero-tolerance policy towards such behavior.
The results of Skanska’s efforts towards inclusion and diversity are evident. The company has received several awards for its diversity and inclusion initiatives, including being named one of the “World’s Most Ethical Companies” by Ethisphere for the fourth consecutive year.
In conclusion, Skanska’s commitment to inclusion and diversity has helped to create a more equitable and inclusive workplace. By actively monitoring progress and tracking aspects of diversity, the company is able to identify areas for improvement and take action to create a more diverse and inclusive environment. Skanska’s efforts have been recognized through various awards and demonstrate the value of promoting inclusion and diversity within the workforce.
Case Study #3: Gilbane Cares Initiative for Diversity and Inclusion
Gilbane Building Company is a leading construction company that recognizes the importance of diversity and inclusion in creating a successful and innovative business. The company has established a comprehensive diversity and inclusion initiative called Gilbane Cares, which is aimed at creating an inclusive work culture, environment, and business model that leverages the capabilities of its diverse employee population and vendor/trade contractor community.
The Gilbane Cares initiative includes the establishment of employee resource groups (ERGs) that are organized around different diversity and inclusion themes. These ERGs provide employees with opportunities to connect with each other, share experiences, and work together on initiatives that promote inclusion and diversity within the company and the broader community. For instance, the women in construction ERG seeks to support, develop, and advance women in the construction industry, while the veterans ERG aims to create a supportive network for military veterans and their families.
Gilbane Building Company has implemented employee-focused programs and training that aim to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion. These programs include unconscious bias training, diversity leadership development, and mentoring programs. The company has also established an inclusion program manager position, responsible for overseeing the development and execution of diversity and inclusion initiatives and programs. The inclusion program manager works closely with the ERGs to ensure that their initiatives align with the company’s overall diversity and inclusion strategy.
The Gilbane Cares initiative has led to positive outcomes for the company, including increased employee engagement and retention, improved relationships with clients and communities, and greater innovation and value for clients. The initiative has also helped to promote a culture of inclusion within the company, where all employees feel valued, respected, and supported.
In conclusion, Gilbane Building Company’s Gilbane Cares initiative is comprehensive and multi-faceted, demonstrating the company’s commitment to creating an inclusive work culture and environment that leverages the capabilities of its diverse workforce. The ERGs, employee-focused programs, and inclusion program manager positions all play important roles in promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion within the company and the broader community.
In Essence…
The construction industry is recognizing the importance of diversity and inclusion in the workplace. A diverse workforce brings fresh ideas, improved decision-making, and increased productivity leading to better financial returns. A diverse team can also lead to more innovative building designs, better problem-solving on job sites, improved communication with clients, and enhanced safety protocols. Companies in the construction industry are implementing initiatives to promote diversity and inclusion, such as Turner Construction’s 2030 Vision and Skanska’s commitment to inclusion and diversity. By embracing diversity and creating an inclusive work environment, the construction industry can foster a culture of creativity, collaboration, and success.
