The Work Clinic

Jo Causon:

Discrimination on the basis of difference is unacceptable at any level. Employers are unlikely to make an appointment if they believe it is the wrong one. The ramifications could be felt in terms of company performance, share value, and long-term strategic planning, to name just three areas. So it's important to remember that you were appointed because you have the skills, experience, and knowledge to do the job.

Any doubts the other directors may have about the choice should be dissolved by demonstrating your impact by simply getting on with the job. Prove your worth through action and moving forward because, now, the decision to appoint is in the past.

Sadly, only once you have demonstrated your abilities by producing positive results will you have the complete support of the other directors.

You could start by putting together a strong business case for the changes you want to make. Of course, to successfully implement your ideas you need to involve the others in your planning. You need to listen to their input and gain their buy-in for any changes. But be careful to prioritise your ideas rather than attempting to address everything at once. There is clearly some level of resistance so colleagues will be more accepting of your ideas once they have seen an initial success.

Diversity is a sensitive issue and one which needs careful management. ‘Embracing Diversity’, is a useful guide providing practical advice and calling on employers to have formal diversity policies in place.