How to Foster Diversity and Inclusion in Your Event Workforce
How to Foster Diversity and Inclusion in Your Event Workforce
The events industry thrives on the energy of a crowd. It’s a symphony of creativity, innovation and fresh perspectives coming together to orchestrate a truly unforgettable experience. But what ignites this spark? It’s the people behind the scenes - the event professionals who tirelessly plan, curate and execute the magic. To achieve this magic at its finest, building a diverse and inclusive team is no longer optional - it’s essential.
Why Diversity and Inclusion Matters in Events
A diverse and inclusive team isn’t just about checking a box. It’s about unlocking a competitive advantage that propels your events and your company forward. Here’s how:
Enhanced Creativity & Problem Solving
Imagine a room full of people who all share the same experiences and perspectives (boring, right?). While they may be highly skilled, their solutions will likely follow similar paths. Now, imagine a diverse team where different backgrounds, ethnicities and ways of thinking come together. Suddenly, a problem has multiple angles of attack, leading to innovative solutions and a richer event experience. Studies by McKinsey & Co have shown that companies with greater diversity are 35% more likely to outperform their competitors on profitability
Stronger Brand Reputation & Audience Connection
Today’s audiences are more diverse than ever before. When your event team reflects that diversity, it sends a powerful message. It lets potential clients and attendees know that you understand their needs and value their perspectives. This translates into a stronger brand reputation and a deeper connection with the communities you serve.
Improved Talent Acquisition & Retention
In a competitive talent market, attracting and retaining top event professionals is crucial (especially in ‘cultural melting pots’ such as Dubai). Here’s the secret weapon: a diverse and inclusive company culture. Top talent, regardless of background, seeks out workplaces where they feel valued and respected. By fostering this environment, you open the talent pool to a wider audience and ensure your team stays engaged and motivated. A study by Glassdoor found that companies with a strong commitment to diversity receive 60% more applications per open position.
So how does this translate to Recruitment?
Here are some actionable steps that you can take to get started:
Broaden Your Recruitment Reach: Don’t just rely on the same old job boards. Partner with diverse professional organisations, attend job fairs focused on underrepresented groups and leverage social media platforms like LinkedIn to attract a wider audience.
Review Your Job Descriptions: Unconscious bias can creep into job descriptions, deterring qualified candidates. Use clear, inclusive language that highlights your company’s commitment to diversity & inclusion. Focus on the skills and qualifications needed for the role, not demographics.
Assemble a Diverse Interview Panel: Move beyond the standard interview format. Incorporate team members from different backgrounds in the interview process. This allows candidates to see themselves reflected in the company and fosters a more welcoming environment.
Create a Culture of Inclusion: Diversity is just the first step. Inclusion is where the magic happens. Provide ongoing diversity and inclusion training for your team. Encourage open communication, celebrate differences and create a culture where everyone feels valued and respected.
A Competitive Advantage
In today’s dynamic event landscape, a diverse and inclusive team isn’t just a good idea, it’s a strategic necessity. By implementing these tips and demonstrating a genuine commitment to diversity and inclusion, you can build a team that will elevate your events, attract top talent and propel your company’s success.
Looking for Top Talent in the Events Industry?
At Esmos Recruitment, we understand the power of diversity and inclusion. We specialise in connecting event professionals from all backgrounds with exciting opportunities. Our network and expertise can help you build a team that reflects the vibrant world of events and brings a wealth of creativity and experience to your next project.
So what are you waiting for? Get in contact today - we’d love to hear from you!
