BY TVISHA MISTRY
Canada is an inclusive nation that believes in the basic human rights to equality and fair treatment, regardless of a person’s: race, gender, sexual orientation, or incapacities. Recognizing the spirit of Canadian inclusiveness in the workplace; the month of October celebrates, National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM).
Studies have shown that companies who hire from a diverse pool of people (including people who have disabilities) face greater success rates. A 2018 Accenture study, found businesses that practice inclusive hiring of people with disabilities, encounter significantly higher economic success. With a 72% higher productivity rate, a 45% increase in workplace safety, 30% higher profit margins; and twice the net income compared to other businesses in the study.
The Ontario Disability Employment Network (ODEN), is a professional body established in 2008, united to increase employment opportunities for people with disabilities. The organization campaigns to raise awareness about the importance and benefits of hiring with diversity and inclusion.
When businesses hire inclusive of people with disabilities they not only establish themselves as an impartial organization, but also reap the benefits of expanding their employment sectors. By not letting an individual’s disability compromise their prospects of employment, the company doesn’t just impact the individual’s life positively, it also: discovers fresh talents, fills potential expertise gaps, all the while strengthening the brand reputation and customer.
As ODEN starts the month off with the National Disability Employment Awareness campaign, the organization’s CEO, Jeannette Campbell shares a heart-touching message with businesses.
“The traditional workplace – the entire concept of how and where people work – is being rapidly reshaped, and will continue to be, perhaps for years to come. It’s essential for businesses to view these challenging times as an opportunity to start intentionally recruiting with diversity and inclusion if they’re not already doing so.”
Campbell further adds, “Right now, many businesses may not be thinking about the future. They are wrestling with their immediate challenges. I definitely understand that. With several sectors facing labour shortages over the next decade, and others rapidly growing, the disability talent pool can help businesses expand their base of qualified candidates and address these labour shortages and growing pains, so they are prepared for the future.
When recruiting candidates who have a disability becomes ‘business as usual,’ it helps shock-proof businesses for the future against uncertainty and adversity. Inclusive hiring helps businesses stay competitive in the long term.”
Jeannette Campbell shares the positive effects that the COVID-19 pandemic has had on “The Power of Inclusion,” and hopes the results are lasting and continue.
Explaining the effects, she says, “Some sectors have been hit hard by the COVID-19 pandemic. Some jobs that have been lost may never come back; at the same time, there are new jobs being created in other sectors. Opening new doors and building new relationships can lead to new employment and business success stories.”
Campbell adds, “Whether businesses are re-staffing as they recover, in a sector that’s growing or facing a future labour shortage, now is the time to expand your talent search.”
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To raise further awareness and educate businesses on the power of inclusive hiring, ODEN is launching a new audio podcast during NDEAM, called “You Can’t Spell Inclusion Without a D.” Through the first episode, qualified panellists will discuss how the power of inclusion can help drive: a stronger business culture, build brand reputation, and attract/retain top talents in the field. This podcast will be made available for download on all major podcast distribution apps from October 13th.
