Creating an inclusive environment when hiring global talent
As more auto care businesses in Canada turn to international recruitment to fill critical labour shortages, a new challenge has emerged: fostering inclusive workplaces. While the auto care sector still tackles attracting and retaining skilled workers, embracing inclusion can create environments where all employees—regardless of background—feel valued and empowered to perform at their best.
Creating an inclusive workplace is not just about checking boxes; it is about building a culture where respect, fairness, and opportunity are genuine practices within an organization. For shop owners, managers, and team leaders, inclusion is a powerful tool to drive team synergy, improve service quality, and attract employees and customers.
Why inclusion matters
Inclusion is more than hiring diverse employees—it is about ensuring everyone feels they belong. It means valuing each team member’s unique perspectives, traditions, and contributions, no matter where they come from. Inclusive environments can strengthen teamwork, boost productivity, and increase employee retention. Employees who feel respected and understood are more likely to stay, contribute, and grow with your business.
Assessing your workplace culture
Creating an inclusive and welcoming work environment begins with reflection. When looking at your workplace, ask yourself:
- Do new team members feel comfortable speaking up or asking for help?
- Are different holidays, dietary needs, and cultural practices respected?
- Is there space for feedback without fear of judgment?
Inclusion begins with awareness. Small changes, like offering flexible lunch breaks for religious observances or translating safety signs, show that your business cares. Encouraging open dialogue and checking in regularly with team members can reveal areas for improvement you might not have noticed.
Inclusive hiring practices
Hiring with inclusion in mind starts with clear, welcoming job postings. Avoid jargon and describe tasks simply and specifically. During interviews, keep in mind that candidates may come from diverse backgrounds and experiences. Some may be feeling nervous or may be communicating in a language that is not their first. Creating a welcoming and patient atmosphere can help bring out their best.
Focus on skills, attitude, and potential rather than just on traditional qualifications or past work in Canada. Not only does this approach broaden your hiring pool, it demonstrates a commitment to equity.
Supporting new hires from day one
Welcoming international hires effectively can have a lasting impact. A structured onboarding plan helps new workers feel confident and included. Pairing new hires with a buddy or mentor can ease their transition and create bonds of trust.
Explain workplace rules, safety standards, and expectations clearly; do not assume prior knowledge of Canadian norms. A helpful employee handbook, translated if needed, is a valuable tool. Additionally, schedule contact points for workers to ask questions and hold these check-ins consistently during the first few months.
Making inclusion a daily practice
Inclusion is not a one-time initiative—it is an ongoing effort. Encourage respectful, clear communication among all team members. If language is a challenge, consider offering access to language support tools or training.
Celebrate your team’s diversity with small gestures like potluck lunches featuring global dishes, multicultural holiday decorations, or storytelling events. These shared experiences build camaraderie and foster understanding.
Leadership sets the tone
Inclusive workplaces start with inclusive leaders. Owners, managers, and team leaders must model fairness, empathy, and openness by listening, adapting, and welcoming feedback.
Hiring global talent helps address labour shortages in Canada’s auto care industry, but the value comes from intentional inclusion. When people feel heard, respected, and supported, they thrive—and so does your business.
Small shifts, such as clear communication, inclusive hiring, and cultural awareness, can have a significant impact. Lead with inclusion daily to unlock your team’s potential and position your business as an industry leader.