Diversity Career Guide

Diversity in the workplace is an important element for students, grads and employers alike. Use this guide to learn more about what workplace diversity is and why it matters.

Why diversity and inclusion matter:

In order to feel truly comfortable at work, you need to know that differentiating factors, such as your ethnicity, gender, age, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, education or religion, will not hinder your success as a young professional – or the success of the organization you work for. Many organizations have official diversity programs, policies and initiatives to ensure employees feel respected and included at work – be sure to consider these programs during your job search.

What is an equitable employer?

An employer whose system operates on merit (how well you perform) and contains no barriers that might have a negative effect on your hiring, retention or growth opportunities.

Pro Tip
"A commitment to workplace diversity is crucial to the success of any business that delivers products and services to their clients."

Resources

Women in Work: International Women's Day

We all know workplace diversity is an important topic. The inclusion of women, especially in workplace settings, is not celebrated enough. In all facets of business, from directors to vice-presidents we see an underrepresentation of women. That’s why Ta...
Groups at Bell: A Place Where You Belong

When choosing a company to grow your career with, many candidates inquire about professional growth and learning opportunities, but what about personal growth and networking opportunities?  Creating a company culture that fosters personal growth can be...
The Future of the Workforce and Diversity at IBM

At IBM, work is more than a job — it's a calling to lead in this new era of technology and solve some of the world's most challenging problems. For Warda Afzal and Dmitri Stupak, that includes making the workplace a safe, inclusive, accessible, and more di...
3 Easy Ways You Can Support Diversity In Your Workplace

So you can’t exactly change the dynamics and culture of your workplace completely on your first week there – but let’s take a look at what you can control. For instance, the way you conduct yourself can play a big role in helping people feel more accept...
Career Advice From Extraordinary Canadian Women

Over the years, women have made leaps and bounds in the workplace. Although gender income equality and the infamous glass ceiling is still an issue, society as a whole is slowly but surely moving in the right direction. More and more women are rising in...
Diversity In The Workplace: Use Your Unique Experiences To Your Advantage

As a young professional, you might be worried about fitting in, making the right choices, and connecting with your co-workers. Many people, especially young individuals like students and grads, don’t feel comfortable distinguishing themselves as differe...
Driving Diversity: What To Do If You Encounter Discrimination In The Workplace

Over the last few years, more and more employers have become active supporters of diversity initiatives, creating and launching innovative programs to support the needs of a changing workforce. However, if you do encounter some form of discrimination du...
5 Of Canada’s Best Diversity Employers

One of the best things about growing up in Canada is the diversity and the chance to connect with people from different cultures, orientations, and walks of life. Acceptance and inclusion are values that resonate with current students and grads, and man...
Connecting With The Community: Making A Difference With Bell

As part of her Graduate Leadership Program at Bell, Olivia Stille had the opportunity to travel across Canada for Clara's Big Ride. Find out how giving back to the community with Bell impacted her career, and how young professionals can get involved.
How To Navigate Your First Job As LGBTQ+: 3 Young Professionals Share Their Stories

Nervous about entering the workforce? These three young LGBTQ+ share their advice on how to successfully transition from school to work.
3 Simple Ways You Can Be A Better Ally To Your LGBT Coworkers

Everybody deserves to work in a supportive and inclusive environment! Here's how to make your office a safe space for your LGBTQ+ colleagues.

A Manager Discusses Disabilities, Accommodation and Disclosure In The Workforce

How do you talk about your disability with an employer? A manager gives her expert advice.

Career Etiquette 101: How To Discuss Disabilities Within The Workplace

Here are some helpful tips and language to consider when discussing disability at work!
A Young Professional’s Guide: How To Bring Up A Mental Health Condition With Your Employer

Talking about mental health in the workplace can be tricky. Here are some tips on how to handle it.
Advice & Guidance For Career-Seeking Students With Disabilities From Successful Recent Graduates

Read the success stories of Paula, Abdi, and Saood – they offer some great advice on starting your career.
3 Career Launching Resources For Students & New Grads Living With A Disability In Canada

There are a ton of great resources for students and grads with disabilities in Canada. Here are 3 great resources to get you started!
Is Your Employer Inclusive Towards Persons With Disabilities? Here Are 4 Things To Look For

Doing some research on a potential employer? Make sure they're inclusive towards individuals with disabilities – here are 4 things to look for!
Duty To Accommodate: Your Rights And Responsibilities

If you’re unable to do your job to the best of your ability because of the work environment, then the work environment must be changed to accommodate you.
Are You Familiar With Equitable Employment?

Employment equity and workplace discrimination laws are in place to keep workplaces in Canada safe and healthy at all times. Here's what you need to know.

What Do You Know About Positive Spaces In The Workplace?

Does your workplace self-identify as a Positive Space?

Managing Age Differences At Work

Working with an older or younger employee or employer can be tricky, as your age difference can cause friction around interests, work habits, career plans and more.
Gender Gaps In The Workplace

Gen Y members are lucky to have the opportunity of entering a working world that is working hard create an enabling and inclusive workplace.

Mental Health In The Workplace: What You Should Know

Did you know that one in five professionals will experience a mental health issue at some point during their careers?
Students And Grads Speak Up On Tattoos In The Workplace

The influx of millennials into the workforce can result in mixed opinions on what is considered appropriate office wear.
Should You Disclose Aboriginal Status To Potential Employers?

It is your choice to disclose your status, but it is not obligatory for you to do so.
Disclosing A Disability At Work? Know Your Rights

It is always stressful seeking employment; however, another layer of stress is added, for those with disabilities.
How To Tell If Diversity Is Actually Important To An Employer

A look at common themes which demonstrate that a workplace is inclusive and values diversity.

How Job Seekers With Disabilities Can Overcome Career Obstacles

Tips from the Lead Job Developer at Spinal Cord Injury Ontario.
Women In The Canadian Armed Forces

Canada is one of only about a dozen countries around the world that allow women to serve in all occupations in its military, including combat roles.
Certified Aboriginal Financial Manager (CAFM) Program Provides Unique, Rewarding Career Path

The CAFM designation is a unique way to develop the skills knowledge you’ll need to successfully navigate the complex world of Aboriginal finance.
Making A Difference For Canada's Different Cultures

Simmi says that while she studied diversity issues in the classroom, she is continuing that cultural education at work.

How I Made Diversity A Valuable Part Of My Resume

I used to talk about diversity like it was my job and, for the first time, it actually was.