Guide to Best Practices in Diversity & Inclusion: Lessons from Top Canadian Employers
17 December 2024
This guide compiles strategies and initiatives employed by leading Canadian companies to foster diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in the workplace. These practices serve as valuable lessons for employers seeking to enhance their DEI efforts.
Encouraging Skilled Newcomers
BC Hydro Model: Hire skilled newcomers for junior positions and provide a clear career advancement plan, including regular performance and development reviews.
Indigenous Inclusion Strategies
Education and Employment Strategy: Develop a comprehensive strategy for Indigenous education and employment.
Dedicated Recruitment Team: Maintain a team focused on recruiting Indigenous candidates.
Partnerships for Work Experience: Collaborate with institutions like RBC to offer work experiences to Indigenous students, attend targeted career fairs and participate in networking events hosted by Indigenous government employee networks.
SaskTel’s Approach: Partner with First Nations Bands, Tribal Councils, and Indigenous employment agencies for targeted recruitment.
LGBTQIA2S+ Inclusion
Professional Resource Groups: Establish groups like Dentons Law Firm’s LGBTA resource group to promote the professional growth of LGBTQIA2S+ employees.
Networking Opportunities: Foster external business development and networking opportunities for LGBTQIA2S+ members.
Inclusion of People with Disabilities
Home Depot’s Initiative: Collaborate with organizations like Ready, Willing, Able to hire individuals with developmental disabilities and autism spectrum disorders.
Joining EARN: Participate in initiatives like EARN, which connects service providers and employers to facilitate employment for persons with disabilities.
Workplace Accessibility
Ergonomic Adjustments: Install ergonomic and adjustable work desks and accessible elevators in office locations.
Supporting New Canadian Employees
Mentoring Programs: Implement programs like National Bank’s partnership with ALLIES Montreal to integrate new Canadian employees.
Professional Internship for newcomers programs: Offer temporary work placements for newcomers, as seen in the City of Ottawa’s approach.
Women’s Advancement
Dedicated Groups for Women: Create groups to help female employees develop professional networks and accelerate advancement.
Recruitment and Networking
Targeted Career Fairs: Attend career fairs focused on diverse groups.
Indigenous Networking Events: Participate in events hosted by indigenous government employee networks.
These practices from top Canadian employers highlight the importance of targeted strategies in fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. By implementing similar initiatives, employers can not only enhance their DEI efforts but also benefit from a more diverse range of perspectives and experiences in their workforce.
