Diversity, Inclusion and Team-Working

Question 1

What is unconscious bias?

Answer 1

Subconscious social stereotypes that we have about certain people that we are unaware about.

Question 2

Give an example of how unconscious bias may impact a surveyors work

Answer 2

Biologically we are hard-wired to prefer people who look like us, sound like us and share our interests. This is known as social categorisation: a process in which we sort people into groups, a gravitation towards the “safe” or familiar. This behaviour can lead to a tendency to appoint people in our own image, rather than those who are more diverse.

The result can be seen in the “pale, male and stale” syndrome that is all too familiar in senior management.

Question 3

Describe the characteristics of a good team player?

Answer 3

Someone who understands team dynamics, how they are formed, roles within each team and the behaviours which lead to effective personal and professional outcomes

Question 4

How is RICS addressing diversity and inclusivity?

Answer 4

They’re places diversity and inclusive centrally in their approach to responsible business. They said diversity and inclusivity are crucial to represent the global communities within the profession

Question 5

What are the nine protected characteristics of the UK’s Equality Act 2010?

Answer 5

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

Question 6

To ensure teams recognise the value of diversity and inclusion, what is it important for them to adopt?

Answer 6

• Appropriate policies with suitable values
• Recruitment techniques which recognise and address unconscious biases
• Communication which is inclusive rather than discriminatory
• Practices exceeding legal requirements under Equality Act 2010
• Training programmes that raise awareness and aim to reduce unconscious biases

Question 7

What has RICS signed to create a more diverse and inclusive sector?

Answer 7

The ‘Memorandum of Understanding’ Action Plan (MoU).

Question 8

What does the ‘Memorandum of Understanding’ Action Plan require?

Answer 8

Standardising member data collection: To create a consistent approach to data collection

Question 9

What are key skills that are useful for effective team - working

Answer 9

1. Listening - to others ideas
2. Discussing - ask questions and interact
3. Persuading - consider positions
4. Respect - treating others with respect and support their ideas
5. Helping - encourage teamwork
6. Sharing - information to create a positive team environment
7. Participating - ensuring all team members get involved
8. Communication - being able to communicate effectively
9. Reflection - identifying strengths and weaknesses of team members