In a rapidly shifting world marred by global conflicts, workplace inclusion emerges as a potent catalyst for change.
This article casts a spotlight on the Made in Group's invaluable inclusivity toolkit against the current geopolitical backdrop. The toolkit offers a treasure trove of resources for manufacturers, extending its reach to owner-managers and HR professionals alike.
The Made in Group’s professionally composed, 40-page guide is packed with best practices and benchmarking tools. The Made in Group initiated its inclusivity project as a direct response to the industry's pressing skills shortage, aiming to make careers in the sector universally appealing.
Members can access the toolkit for FREE by logging onto their dashboard and downloading the employer pledge, and then downloading logos and resources form the resource section of the member dashboard
The Challenge of Global Conflict
Global conflicts, be they political, economic, ideological, or religious, fuel divisions and mistrust among nations and cultures. In this turbulent world, workplace inclusion becomes more important than ever, fostering understanding and collaboration among a diverse workforce.
The Prevent Strategy: A Government Call to Action
The UK government's Prevent strategy, designed to counter extremism and radicalisation, emphasises the dangers of isolation and division. This principle extends to workplaces, underlining the role of inclusion in countering extremist ideologies by creating a sense of belonging and purpose.
Jason Pitt said, “Iv observed first hand how extremist elements on the left such as the Socialist Worker which propogates marxist ideas are trying to use current geopolitical differences for their own ends. It’s clearly an emerging domestic terror threat and is harming community relations particularly between groups where tensions are already running high.”
Picture below: The Socialist Worker is among several groups that have been reported for posing a potential domestic terror threat and stirring division wihtin the islamic community.
Jason added, “I'm also observing extremist language from some of the far left and far right of political parties which is equally concerning. Indeed this may well be the challenge of our generation.”
Inclusion as a Competitive Edge
Beyond moral obligations, inclusion is a strategic business imperative. Forward-thinking manufacturers, led by owner-managers and HR managers, understand that diversity enhances innovation and future-proofs operations. By embracing diverse backgrounds and perspectives, organisations gain a competitive edge in an interconnected world.
Mitigating Isolation and Fostering Collaboration
Isolation can lead to marginalisation and resentment, factors that make extremist ideologies appealing. In an inclusive workplace, employees from diverse backgrounds receive equal opportunities, reducing the risk of isolation. This fosters a harmonious environment where individuals are less susceptible to extremist influences.
Navigating Equality Laws and Contradictions
Equality laws, while well-intentioned, can fall short when dealing with complex, nuanced situations and contradictions. Jason Pitt, CEO of the Made in Group, emphasises the importance of clear, non-politicised frameworks that recognise the need for pragmatism. Legal compliance, along with operational continuity, is essential.
"Political Correctness" in the Workplace
The concept of "political correctness" has been a driving force and a point of contention in discussions about workplace inclusion. Jason Pitt highlights his own experience in this area. In the early days of the equality act, I posted a job advert in Walsall job centre for hard working staff, the job advert was banned under the equality act because the centre manager said it discriminated against people who were not hard working. Whilst this is an unusual example it does highlight what many employers fear in terms of how useful these laws are.
Inclusivity does however transcend political correctness, creating a more effective working environment that thrives on diversity, sometimes we must ignore political agenda and those on the extreme ends of the debate that talk but don’t listen and forge our own path based on best practice examples and our own values.
Values
In today's modern world and especially since the evolution of political debating apps such as twitter, the place is full of virtue signalling, that's those who express disgust or honour for certain things but it comes from a place that's insincere.
Jason added, “I believe it is possible to have an inclusive approach without sacrificing your values. A pragmatic approach that replaces and resists virtue signalling with a meritocratic approach. In a meritocratic world a right wing conservative can easily work alongside an effective and productive left wing co worker. It's about the work ultimately, and you are not required to believe or agree with their ideology.
Jason added, “After many arguments on twitter with trying to diffuse extremist posters I've come to the conclusion that its values are not virtues, forget every world someone says and focus entirely on their actions. You can nver truely win an argument on social media."
The Made in Group's Inclusivity Toolkit: A Valuable Resource
The Made in Group's inclusivity toolkit, now freely available to all members, equips manufacturers with the tools to promote diversity, inclusion, and equality in the workplace. It streamlines the complex landscape of inclusivity, enhancing business operations and supporting a broader social vision.
Conclusion
In a world characterised by global conflicts and extremist ideologies, the workplace emerges as a catalyst for change. The Made in Group's inclusivity toolkit plays a pivotal role in helping manufacturers, owner-managers, and HR managers navigate the intricate journey of workplace inclusion amidst global strife.
By championing diversity and fostering inclusion, manufacturers protect themselves against legal risks while becoming beacons of hope in a divided world. Companies contribute to the greater cause of global peace and unity, demonstrating the transformative power of inclusion in the face of adversity. The focus shifts from "political correctness" to creating a diverse and effective workforce, ensuring success in an ever-evolving manufacturing sector.
Jason said, "I myself had to do some deep thinking in terms of the inclusivity project because for me to champion this, I need to belive in it fully, and in the light of the Middle East conflict there was some soul searching. I have come to the conclusion that this is the only logical path to peace and long term prosperity and in our businesses when you consider the demogrpahic shift and people shortage its the only logical path for our businesses also.
Whatever your views politically, a pragmatic and meritocratic business is naturally an inclusive business, and at least that's one thing every business can agree on."