Tip #1: Simple Steps for Promoting an Affirmative Action Plan

March 30, 2009 1020 Comments2009-03-31+04%3A13%3A41Ben+Nash

An affirmative action plan outlines the steps and goals an organization plans to take in order to improve past discrimination in the workplace. The topic of affirmative action has been a hotly debated subject in the legal system, with proponents arguing that it increases the levels of diversity at all tiers of society, while its critics claim it lessens the value of individual performance and creates a system in which candidates are chosen by their social group. While affirmative action plans are required for most federal contractors, sub-contractors, and government agencies, it is a good policy for any organization to promote diversity to gain the benefits of varied thought and ideas for solving problems and increasing effectiveness. Here are a few necessary steps to take for implementing an affirmative action plan:

Get the key players involved – Have upper management spearhead and support the diversity initiatives of the organization. Having the commitment of a CEO or COO will send a positive message to all employees that the company is serious about diversity.

Make the goals clear and accessible – Don’t hide the company’s affirmative action plan in the appendix of the employee handbook. Broadcast the organization’s diversity goals to all employees. Make sure to communicate the goals often – it will reinforce the culture of diversity and, besides, people sometimes have short memories.

Survey the landscape – In order to improve, you have to know what you are working with. Review any current policies and look for areas in which you think the organization can improve.

Implement diversity training – to ensure the organization is on the right path, it is beneficial to educate all employees on their legal responsibilities and the company’s faithfulness to its equal opportunity goals.