The crucial part we play in creating diverse and inclusive workplaces

By Melissa Occhipinti Executive General Manager - Paxus, Director - APSCo Australia

Achieving a workplace culture of diversity, inclusion, and belonging is a key priority for many organisations, with evidence showing that companies who comprise of diverse teams outperform those with more homogenous workforces, explains Melissa Occhipinti.

The recruitment industry and internal Talent Acquisition teams are instrumental in assisting organisations to meet their diversity and inclusion goals, as, let’s face it, this cannot be achieved if they are not provided with a diverse short list.

Recruiters are often the first point of contact between the employer and the candidate, and are the gatekeepers to job opportunities. We are the ones who can influence clients to ensure their job requirements provide the right employment conditions that would attract a diversified pool of candidates, whether that be the ability to pivot a role to part-time, provide family friendly flexible working arrangements or ensuring the workplace can be adapted to accommodate candidates with a disability, to name a few.

We also have the responsibility to ensure the recruitment process is as inclusive as possible to ensure that candidates from all backgrounds receive the same opportunities, regardless of gender, ethnicity, sexual orientation, religious or non-religious beliefs, nationality, family background, age, and disability.

At Paxus, we take a multifaceted approach that not only looks at the ways in which we recruit on behalf of our clients, but also considers how we promote diversity and inclusion within our own business. Key aspects of our diversity and inclusion program include:

Comprehensive and regular recruitment training on inclusive recruitment processes.

All our consultants have achieved their Disability Confident Recruitment (DCR) certifications, which means we prioritise breaking down the barriers in the recruitment process to make it more accessible for those living with a disability.

We partner with female-led industry associations to run workshops on CVs and career advice to encourage female applicants.

Gender coding in job ads to ensure the right language is used to attract female candidates.

We partner with a number of indigenous enterprises that are heavily involved in their local communities, to engage and encourage indigenous candidates to apply for opportunities.

Our commitment to diversity and inclusion is also an internal priority. This is reflected in the establishment of the Paxus Academy, our support of various not-for-profit organisations, as well as a concerted effort to celebrate every staff member’s success and ensure every voice is heard and valued.

We’re committed to doing our part, and we hope you all are too.