Actionable insights on some of the workplace’s tricker conversations

A 28 minute watch.

Bringing together first-hand understanding of the importance of seeing diversity, a data-driven approach to inclusion and a passion for recruitment are key to improving the future of the profession, as we hear from Quilter’s new head of diversity, inclusion and talent Tosin James-Odukoya.

She explains that diversity targets need to be longer-term, which would eliminate ‘box-ticking’ and stresses the importance of internships, storytelling, role models and allies.

The profession needs to talk about these issues on a regular basis, rather than being ring-fenced conversations, she says, and offers some advice for people for whom D&I discussions are less familiar.

“All these years we have ignored bad practice, now we are taking positive action and rectifying what has been done in the past.

“People need to understand the difference between investing in someone’s development and giving them a role just because they are of a particular demographic.”

When it comes to recruitment, Tosin believes long lists of ‘must have’ attributes can suggest a lack of flexibility as an employer and put some young people off, and encourages hiring managers to look beyond the CV.

Has your firm adopted the Halo Code?

You might find this workplace guide to understanding inclusive language useful.