Workplace diversity has become a pivotal focus in Manchester’s dynamic business landscape. By addressing diversity head-on, the city aims to drive growth and innovation.
Recent discussions among industry leaders have brought this issue into the spotlight, setting the stage for practical and impactful actions.
Diversity as a Catalyst for Growth
The city of Manchester has strategically placed workplace diversity at the forefront of its agenda, recognising it as an essential catalyst for business growth. This proactive approach was highlighted during a vibrant debate hosted by OBI Property in collaboration with Allied London at Enterprise City. A historic site, the former Granada Studios, served as a fitting backdrop for this forward-thinking discussion. The event brought together influential voices in the industry, leading to meaningful dialogues on workplace diversity’s crucial role in economic expansion.
Key Insights from Industry Leaders
The discussion was led by Kirsty Styles, who is known for her significant contributions as a talent and skills lead at Tech North. Her insightful moderations allowed panellists like Naomi Timperley, Kirsty Devlin, Vimla Appadoo, and Mylo Kaye to share their expert opinions, reinforcing the notion that diversity isn’t just a moral imperative but a business necessity.
“Diversity is a key issue facing Manchester businesses, particularly those experiencing fast growth,” stated Joe Averill from OBI Property. This sentiment was echoed by the panel, which unanimously agreed that a diverse workforce fosters innovation and competitive advantage.
Practical Steps Towards Greater Inclusion
One of the significant takeaways was the emphasis on simple, actionable steps businesses can undertake to enhance diversity. Engaging in open discussions about gender, race, and inequality emerged as a vital move. Companies were encouraged to carefully review job descriptions to avoid gendered language that might deter a diverse pool of applicants.
Regular use of social media was advised to highlight and support positive examples of diversity in the workplace. Panellists suggested that featuring businesses and individuals who champion diversity can inspire others to adopt similar practices.
Mentorship programmes were identified as another crucial area where companies could make a substantial impact. By nurturing the confidence and self-belief of young individuals, organisations can lay the foundation for a more inclusive future workforce.
Commitment from Local Enterprises
Daisy Barnes from Allied London articulated a strong commitment from local enterprises to sustain diversity initiatives over the coming year. This commitment underscores the recognition that diversity is not only vital for tapping into the broad talent base Manchester has to offer but also because it decisively benefits business operations.
Barnes remarked that without diversity, businesses risk missing out on innovative talent. Her assertion reinforces the overarching theme of the discussion: diversity contributes fundamentally to business health and success.
Community Engagement and Support
The event highlighted the power of community engagement, with over 100 attendees participating in the debate. This level of involvement signifies a growing awareness and willingness to address diversity issues head-on. The tangible support for diversity within the community is a promising indicator of change, signalling a shift towards more inclusive business practices in Manchester.
By bringing together stakeholders across various sectors, the debate facilitated a collective responsibility towards enhancing diversity. The shared enthusiasm illustrated a collaborative effort to break down barriers and promote equality within professional environments.
The Role of Mentorship
The value of mentorship surfaced as a pivotal element in fostering diversity. Panellists agreed on the importance of introducing mentorship schemes that not only support individuals in their current roles but also prepare them for future opportunities.
By investing in mentorship, organisations can effectively build capable and confident teams ready to tackle the challenges of tomorrow. Such initiatives are integral to constructing an adaptable and resilient workforce.
Future Outlook for Manchester’s Diversity
With Manchester firmly placing diversity at the heart of its growth agenda, the city is poised to become a beacon of inclusivity and innovation. The discussions and initiatives arising from this event suggest sustained momentum towards embracing a diverse workforce across all sectors.
In conclusion, Manchester’s renewed focus on workplace diversity signals an exciting era for its business sector.
Through collaboration and commitment, the city is well on its way to achieving greater inclusion and success on a global scale.