DIVERSITY

DIVERSITY

Many employees surveyed said they were satisfied by their companies’ efforts to develop diversity. Unsurprisingly, much of the focus centres on recruiting the next generation – in addition to upping their presence on online job platforms and social media. many mortgage companies have aimed their efforts at universities by participating at university job fairs and partnering with local universities to offer job opportunities. “Over the past year, we have increased our presence at university fairs with the hiring of emerging talent, as well as participation in co-operative programs through local universities,” one organization said. “At any given time, 1% to 2% of our employees are co-op students. This increases over the summer months to approximately 5%.”

To build more diverse workforces, several Top Mortgage Workplaces have reached out to women and minority groups through ad targeting or by coordinating with local women- or minority-focused organizations. One lender even developed a committee dedicated to diversity and inclusion initiatives, such as creating an equal opportunity plan that ensures, among other things, that women are promoted into leadership. “Almost 50% of our employee population are of a visible minority group,” the organization reports. “We celebrate Pride Week every year for our LGBTQ community, and our employment equity plan is in place to increase our persons with disabilities employee base over the next three years.”

Other companies explained that while they don’t have formal diversity programs in place, they hire and promote based on merit only, allowing people from all backgrounds to shine.

What’s the average gender balance?
Male: 47%
Female: 53%

Does your organization offer programs aimed at recruiting and/or retaining younger workers?
10 to 25 employees:
Yes: 55%
No:  45%
26 to 100 employees:
Yes: 40%
No:  60%
101 to 500 employees: 
Yes: 57 %
No:  43%
500+ employees:
Yes: 100%
No:  0%

Does your organization offer any programs aimed at recruiting and/or retaining women, individuals from minority groups, persons with disabilities and/or LGBTQ individuals?
10 to 25 employees:
Yes: 55%
No:  45%
26 to 100 employees:
Yes: 11%
No:  89%
101 to 500 employees:
Yes: 57%
No:  43%
500+ employees:
Yes: 100%
No:  0%