Building an Inclusive Workplace: Key Takeaways from the Inclusive Hiring Toolkit

How Make The Change is Empowering Organisations to Embrace Diversity through Inclusive Hiring

At Make The Change, we believe that creating a truly inclusive society begins in the workplace. That’s why we were proud to contribute to the Inclusive Hiring Toolkit, a comprehensive guide designed to help organisations transform their hiring processes and workplace culture to support talents from diverse backgrounds.

Developed in partnership with social enterprises, corporates, and community organisations, the toolkit offers actionable insights and practical tools to support inclusive hiring—from the first job post to long-term retention.

🌍 What is Inclusive Hiring?

Inclusive Hiring is the intentional practice of recruiting and retaining talents with diverse needs—including persons with disabilities, seniors, ex-offenders, caregivers, individuals with mental health challenges, and youth-at-risk. It moves beyond charity and CSR, shifting the focus to dignified employment and mutual value creation.

💡 Key Learnings from the Toolkit

1. Start with the “Why”

Many misconceptions still surround inclusive hiring—such as the belief that it’s too costly, difficult to implement, or a form of charity. The toolkit helps organisations reframe these myths by showcasing how inclusive practices:

• Increase innovation and productivity

• Enhance brand reputation

• Reduce turnover and absenteeism

• Attract young and socially conscious talent

2. Inclusive Hiring Is a Journey

The toolkit outlines a 3-stage roadmap:

• Pre-Boarding: Rethink job roles, partner with job coaches, and prepare inclusive-friendly policies

• Preparation: Train staff, redesign workspaces if needed, and align internal expectations

• Onboarding & Retention: Provide buddy systems, mentorship, regular reviews, and career development pathways

3. Empathy, Not Assumptions

Using tools like Empathy Mapping, organisations can better understand the needs, fears, and strengths of both inclusive talents and existing teams. This fosters mutual respect and smoother integration.

4. Assets Matter

The Asset-Based Assessment tool shifts the focus from “what’s missing” to “what’s strong.” Whether it’s existing technology, flexible work policies, or team culture—every organisation has strengths it can leverage.

5. Plan for the Risks

The Risk Assessment tool supports thoughtful decision-making. By identifying potential challenges—such as miscommunication, integration concerns, or mismatched expectations—leaders can put proactive support in place.

🚀 From Toolkit to Transformation

One inspiring example is Genashtim, a B Corp-certified company employing more than 50% persons with disabilities across 20 countries. Their roadmap—built on empathy, structure, and strategic planning—demonstrates what’s possible when inclusion is a business priority.

🛠️ How Make The Change Can Help

At Make The Change, we continue to walk the talk:

• We design inclusive training programmes for persons with disabilities and youth-at-risk

• We consult companies on inclusive hiring strategy and job redesign

• We co-develop tools like this toolkit to make inclusion practical and scalable

💬 Join Us in Making the Change

Whether you’re just starting or looking to deepen your inclusive practices, this toolkit is a powerful first step.

📥 Download the Inclusive Hiring Toolkit

📧 Contact us to explore inclusive hiring strategies or customised training for your organisation.

🌱 Let’s build a future where every talent has a place to grow and thrive.