Diversity and inclusion (D&I) are not just a matter for society, they are also a decisive factor in a company’s success. Muriel Brouwer, HR Manager at the Würth Finance headquarters in ‘s-Hertogenbosch, explains how she approaches the topic.
Muriel, what does D&I mean?
D&I means creating a working environment in which everyone feels welcome and valued. Because when people feel safe, they act authentically and make more valuable contributions.
Why is D&I important?
Companies that are committed to D&I create an inclusive working culture in which international talent can unleash their potential. That enhances employee satisfaction and retention as well as the company’s performance. A diverse workforce also reflects the client base, which in turn improves the understanding of markets and target groups.
How do you achieve D&I in recruitment?
Our job advertisements in the Netherlands are neutral and do not contain any requirements that could exclude particular groups. In order to lower the barriers, we do not request cover letters. We have also removed date of birth, gender and nationality from the application form in order to avoid unconscious bias. We make sure that the procedure and interviews are the same for everyone, so that the selection is based on the candidates’ actual skills and qualifications. This helps us sustainably strengthen diversity within the company.
