Part 2: Why we need more women in the workplace
How to encourage diversity in the workforce, making it more accessible for women in the workplace…
In our first article, we looked at the benefits of gender equality in the workplace. Now, we’re diving into the ways that organisations can make their workplace more diverse.
To recap, the benefits of diversity include larger talent pools, innovation, improved communication with your audience, and increased profitability.
The reality is that, when it comes to diversity, most organisations don’t even know where to begin. Implementing new policies and hiring strategies can be overwhelming, and getting started can often be the biggest barrier.
Here are some ways that organisations can promote diversity, encouraging more women with intellectual disabilities to enter the workforce.
Set aside a budget for inclusion
The first step is to make sure that you have an adequate budget and resources to undertake a change like this. This should be presented to senior management early on so that there are no surprises down the track. This budget can go towards communications, training or assistive technology. If you are met with resistance when presenting your budget, don’t forget to mention that diversity will result in increased profitability for your organisation.
Put inclusive policies in place
It’s not enough to simply say that your organisation is inclusive, you need to have policies in place to prove it. To begin with, ask yourself if your work environment is open, inclusive and accessible to people with an intellectual or physical disability? Could interactions within your workplace hinder a person with a disability’s full and effective participation? If the answer is yes, this will determine the types of policies you will need to put in place.
Make training accessible for all women in the workplace
One of the biggest barriers to entry for women with an intellectual disability is a lack of adequate training. You can demonstrate your commitment to equality and diversity by ensuring that your workplace offers accessible training opportunities. To ensure that information and training are accessible to everyone, potential and current employees should have access to easy-read resources..
Drive positive social norms to encourage inclusion
Does your workplace foster a culture of respect and support for women with disabilities? If not, what can you do to address this? If businesses actively hire and promote women with disabilities and include them in professional development training, it sends a message that they are committed to providing equal opportunities. Other ways to encourage inclusion include providing development opportunities such as mentoring and job-shadowing days for people with disabilities, thought leadership, and advocacy.
Are you committed to encouraging more women to enter the workplace? What stance does your organisation take on this issue?
Our Women in the Workplace stream launched in February 2022! It is supported by the department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet’s Office for Women.
This membership focuses, not only on skills for employment but also teaches invaluable skills required to work towards one’s overall independence.
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