Research summary: Employer inclusivity: Global best practices

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Why this study

The study looks at problems related to equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) in workplaces in Canada. Diversity can foster innovation and creativity. It also raises worker satisfaction and retention. Different groups can face challenges to be included and treated fairly at work. This includes:

• women
• racial minorities
• Indigenous peoples
• persons with disabilities
• LGBTQ+ individuals

What we did

This is a comparative analysis of over 1,000 sources. A 'critical ecological model' is used to study workplace inclusion on 3 levels:

• societal - demographics, government policy, culture
• organizational - firm practices, sector norms, internal processes
• individual - knowledge, skills and behaviour of both job seekers and employers

The analysis compared EDI practices and policies from different countries. It assessed federal policies and considered how social and cultural factors shape employer practices.

What we found

There has been some progress in promoting EDI in Canada. However, there are still barriers that keep some groups from being included at work. Employers that include and treat everyone well have happier and healthier workers and do better. Firm size matters: Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SME)s can lack resources and direction to foster EDI. Real change is needed rather than just talking about EDI.

The research highlighted 6 domains for action:

• leadership: representation, set the tone from the top
• HR: inclusive hiring, prioritize skills over credentials, seek diverse candidates, pay equity
• work culture: code of ethics, clear policies for discrimination and harassment, worker supports
• measurement: collect detailed data, track representation, set targets, understand worker needs
• value chain: engage with diverse suppliers, build into communication
• outreach: look at how partners support EDI, build diverse talent pipeline, internship programs

What it means

This study supports ESDC's priorities around workforce inclusion. This means helping everyone to have equal opportunities in the job market. It provides guidance for employers and program areas to support fair and inclusive workplaces. Firms need to be inclusive to stay relevant and compete globally. A key factor is to ensure diversity is a core part of how they operate and develop. This can help people from all groups to learn new skills and find good jobs. Smaller employers especially require policies and tools to support more diverse hiring and training.

Contact us

For access to the full report, please contact us using the email address below.

Skills and Employment Branch, Labour Market Information Directorate, Policy Research Analysis and Geomatics Division

Email: esdc.nc.sspb.research-recherche.dgpss.cn.edsc@esdc-edsc.gc.ca