Why you really should be committing to diversity

The biggest mistake companies can make when trying to diversify their workforce is to treat it as a passing fad. Diversity in the workplace isn't a passing fad, but a real long-term solution for talent sourcing in Canada.

Statistics Canada and the Conference Board of Canada predict that by 2015 there will be 350,000 more jobs than workers in Canada. The problem is even worse when you look at skilled workers or candidates with specific experience.

And don't expect simply to flip a switch in 2015 and suddenly become a workplace that's enticing to diverse candidates. Like any organizational culture change success won't come overnight. Creating a more diversified workforce means creating a company culture that embraces diversity and that takes time, energy, and commitment from the top down.

Real success in diversification can only come from taking a longer, strategic view. Don't create a six-month "quick fix" plan to diversify your workforce. Develop a multi-year integrated strategy that allows you to learn from mistakes and build on your successes.

What elements should your plan consider? Here are some ideas to get you started.

• Improve the diversity readiness of your organization. The reality is that many people don't work well with "different" or the "other". There are many diversity agencies who offer assessment and training of your current workforce to educate and promote ideas of acceptance and the importance of a diverse workforce. Knowing that your current team will be welcoming to a diverse workforce is a critical first step.
• Make sure you get your employment brand in front of everyone
• Define and measure success. Like any people strategy your diversification strategy should have objective goals which can and are measured so you know you're on the right track.

These aren't all the steps you'll need to take but they are a start. Remember if you aren't committed to diversity then you won't be effective at making your workforce diverse. And if you're not diverse then you simply won't be hiring the best talent, or soon enough any talent at all.