D&I

Question 1

Why is diversity important in a team?

Answer 1

• Wider experiences and cultures - all learn together therefore better product / service
• Different individuals have different skills & perspective - providing for a better overall ability and service.
• Better morale

Question 2

What are formal communication processes within a team

Answer 2

• Memos
• Letters / Emails
• Briefings
• Annual updates

Question 3

What is inclusive communication?

Answer 3

Consideration for the language used in formal communications - not to discriminate or exclude a group of / individuals.

Question 4

What are your business internal diversity and inclusion policies?

Answer 4

Equality and diversity policy which includes anti-harassments and anti-discrimination and promotes regular unconscious bias training.
Promote an open door culture that encourages all staff to talk and discuss issues openly and support other members of staff.
In the process of researching and drafting a business fertility treatment support policy.
Encourage young individuals into property

Question 5

What is unconscious bias?

Answer 5

Bias/ judgements created by our own perceptions, culture, stereotypes, upbringing and life experiences - being aware of these and how these can effect our judgements allows us to make more informed factual decisions.

Question 6

How to overcome unconscious bias?

Answer 6

• Training and education on the matter
• D&I policies and procedures
• Encouraging a more diverse workforce

Question 7

What is the difference between diversity & inclusion?

Answer 7

a. Diversity – the characteristics and things that make us all different
b. Inclusion – is making everyone feel welcome

Question 8

What are the 9 protected characteristics under the Equality Act 2010?

Answer 8

1. Gender reassignment
2. Sex
3. Sexual disorientation
4. Age
5. Disability
6. Race
7. Religion or belief
8. Marriage and partnership
9. Pregnancy and maternity

Question 9

Why is effective teamworking important?

Answer 9

• Collaboration leads to diversity in thought
• Better problem solving
• Can complete tasks in a shorter period of time
• Everyone is accountable for the success of the business leading to increased job satisfaction

Question 10

What are the characteristics of a good team player?

Answer 10

• Open minded and adaptable
• Respectful
• Inclusive
• Listens to others
• Active participation
• Good communication skills
• Positive attitude
• Reflective work practices

Question 11

What are the D&I challenges facing the sector?

Answer 11

• Struggle to retain ethnic employees
• Lack of ethnic employees in senior positions
• Lack of diversity entering at junior levels
• Unconscious biases
• Gender pay gap

Question 12

Why is D&I important?

Answer 12

• Its important that everyone has a sense of belonging
• Important that people feel they can be themselves and bring their whole selves to work
• Morally the right thing to do
• Discrimination is illegal

Question 13

What is the RICS doing to address D&I?

Answer 13

• D&I online training
• Acknowledge and recognise events such as black history month, pride, etc – and run campaigns and events
• RICS and 5 bodies in the built environment have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) – 45 point action plan to tackle EDI
• Governing council have a steer group to oversee DEI

Question 14

What section of the building regulations relates to equality?

Answer 14

Part M – reasonable provision should be made for people to access and use the dwelling

Question 15

What does the equality Act 2010 say / cover?

Answer 15

• Provides protection against discrimination
• Identifies 4 types of discrimination: direct, indirect, harassment, victimisation
• Extends obligations to ‘controllers’ of let premises
• Access statement and audit is required for all properties