For me diversity and inclusive leadership is important. It’s important to have our leadership teams reflect our society. For many organisations, diversity and inclusion are too often derided as “soft” human resource issues.
In this article by Nathan Luke of Stacks Law Firm, we are reminded of the things we can and cannot ask during an interview with a potential candidate. Whilst some of the questions are obviously in the “don’t ask” basket, this piece points to some interesting things you can probe about.
Special Counsels Cilla Robinson and Christy Miller recently addressed issues regarding workplace bullying and discrimination. “A common issue that arises in unacceptable conduct cases is the lack of, or complacency with, policies which deal with the consequences of inappropriate behaviour in the workplace”.
In regards to mental health in the workplace, Nathan Luke advises that “employers would be wise to get legal advice to be sure they are complying with the law, as penalties can be severe.” He highlights that “employers have legal obligations to avoid discrimination.”
Nathan Luke reminds us that “if you have certain expectations of your employees regarding appearance, you should have a clear, written policy setting out the relevant rules. This policy should be clearly articulated to employees before they accept the job.” Read more here.
In this exclusive with Phillipa Muir of Simpson Grierson, we learn about issues around workplace bullying and discrimination in New Zealand, and also how the culture shift towards ensuring inclusiveness in the workplace, particularly for the LGBTI community, has been very positive, yet is often met with some resistance.
A recent case in the Northern Territory Anti-Discrimination Commission serves as an important reminder of the need that a written anti-discrimination policy must also be communicated, implemented and enforced. “It is not enough that it merely exists,” writes Tim Lethbridge.