EuroWire July 2020

Corporate News

A factory environment that welcomes all

The surrounding diversity and equality sets minimum standards to ensure that no individual is placed at a disadvantage because of their age, disability, ethnicity, religion, gender, sexual orientation or social background. Celebrating diversity has benefits beyond being legally compliant: it is recognised as improving staff wellbeing and engagement. Initiatives that work for one company may not necessarily work for another, but according to Cimteq, a cable design and manufacturing software specialist, there are several questions that can help develop a welcoming environment for all: How does the company profile compare to that of the customer? Customers seek to work with suppliers that share both their make-up and values. Inviting customers to see first-hand the diversity of the workforce will give confidence that the company understands customers’ needs. Are diversity levels where they could be? Set workforce profile targets in all areas legal framework

▲ ▲ Targeting diversity across the business

of the business (recruitment, training, promotion and retention), assess them regularly and report on progress across the company.

How does a company turn inclusivity strategy into practical activity? can represent diverse groups can accelerate buy-in across the factory floor. By sharing their experiences, these ‘torchbearers’ can be the point of contact to galvanise staff ideas and effect change. While creating a strategy is easy, changing the culture of a company and maintaining momentum is less so. Applying for awards or signing up to campaigns demonstrates that com- mitment is for the long-term. Examples in the UK include The Times Top 50 Employers for Women and Stonewall Top 100 Employers awards, and the Disability Confident Leader campaign. Companies that embrace diversity in the workplace report higher staff retention levels and run less risk of reputational damage. Beyond this financial cost, companies open to different ideas and styles of thinking are more confident in their innovation and decision making. Cimteq is committed to sharing its expertise on a host of subjects of interest to cable manufacturers through its online resource and e-learning centre, Cimteq Academy. Cimteq Ltd www.cimteq.com Appointing individuals who

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July 2020