In recent years, there has been a growing awareness across all companies of their diversity and inclusion practices, including in the construction industry. Of course, this is wonderful for employees and potential hires — there are more opportunities for marginalized groups, and there is a reduced opportunity for employers to take advantage of their hires.

When it comes to running a company, hiring a diverse group of employees and giving each person an equal opportunity to succeed and equal access to benefits is also one of the best ways to grow as a leader and improve your business.

The Benefits of Diversity

The definition of diversity is “the practice or quality of including or involving people from a range of different social and ethnic backgrounds and of different genders, sexual orientations, etc.” I can, without a doubt, say that Roofing & More would not be what it is today if I hadn’t made more of an effort to surround myself with a diverse group of people from all walks of life.

When I first began the company, I wanted to surround myself with people who were just like me, agreed with me and thought the same exact way I did. However, I quickly realized that difference of opinions and even conflict is good. I found that I had been missing out on the blessings and value that people who think differently than me can bring. New perspectives from different backgrounds teach us new ways of thinking and help us become better people and better leaders.

Putting Inclusion Into Practice

Of course, a diverse business doesn’t mean anything if you aren’t being inclusive, giving every employee the same opportunity to grow and succeed, and have a better life outside of work. At Roofing & More, it is part of my vision to show my team how much I care, and that they mean something to me. Each employee gets access to our benefits, is listened to and is valued, and they know that I care and am invested in their professional and personal journeys.

I encourage other businesses to look at their own practices when it comes to diversity and inclusion.