Modus

Defining our future

To attract the best talent you must create an inclusive environment – RICS is marking Pride Month this June in a number of ways

Author:

  • Kath Fontana

01 June 2021

Last month, RICS’ Governing Council released a summary of the responses we received to our strategic review consultation, Defining our Future. There were some challenging responses from our members. We have listened and the Governing Council are now considering how to refresh our strategy based on this feedback.

We’ve got a lot to do. There are many challenges and opportunities we must face. Creating a sustainable, digitally-driven built environment will be a key priority for the profession for decades to come. It is absolutely right that we seize this opportunity to build a resilient organisation that can lead the built environment of the future.

Our strategy must ensure we are in the strongest position to tackle these challenges. For us to lead in the future, we will need the brightest talent in surveying. With professionals in more than 140 countries, the breadth of our expertise is one of our strongest assets. However, we know we need to do more to build a global profession which is attractive to people from all backgrounds.

We have a huge opportunity ahead to shape the future of our profession – but we must reach out and ensure everyone feels welcome in our vibrant sector.

Recently, I spoke at a RICS-supported event about intersectionality and stigma hosted by Freehold and BAME in Property. Four panellists talked openly about identifying as LGBTQ+ and as BAME and how intersectionality had affected their experiences in the industry. I found it really inspiring to hear their stories first-hand. This helped me to understand more about what I can do to create an open and welcoming environment that enables everyone to flourish. 

Events like this are crucial to highlight diverse perspectives. Keynote speaker Lady Phyll, co-founder of UK Black Pride, argued that eliminating discrimination must be a whole-community effort. So, for those of us who have privilege of any sort, these events are really important.

All of us have a role to play in building a better world, and we are stronger when we collaborate. As we mark Pride this month, RICS will sign Building Equality’s Trans Rights pledge, celebrating the contribution of our trans members and colleagues.

We will also be flying the Progression Rainbow Flag above our Parliament Square building in support of our LGBTQ+ and Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic colleagues. And the next version of the RICS Rules of Conduct will include a strong theme of creating diverse workplaces by promoting respect and tolerance, reinforcing our commitment to inclusion.

We simply must attract the best and brightest to surveying to address the challenges ahead. So, we must all strive to foster the growth of a more diverse profession. It is only through action - not words - that we will build a dynamic and inclusive global profession where everyone can thrive.

 

Building a more inclusive environment

Championing diversity in our industry. Read more

Collage of headshot of six RICS professionals