More than a third (36 per cent) of racialized and Indigenous Canadian employees said they feel their colleagues may deliberately act in a way that undermines their efforts at work, according to a new survey by ADP Canada.
The survey, which polled more than 1,000 employees, found this percentage increased to 40 per cent among racialized and Indigenous men, while only 21 per cent of white respondents agreed with the statement.
Roughly 90 per cent of respondents indicated they’re comfortable being themselves at work and 80 per cent felt they can bring concerns to their manager or senior leadership team. In addition, 82 per cent of employees said their unique skills and talents are used and appreciated at work.
Read: How to build a psychologically safe workplace
However, when respondents were asked about making mistakes at work, 49 per cent of racialized and Indigenous employees agreed that making a mistake at work would be held against them. A third (35 per cent) of employees in these groups also said it’s difficult to ask colleagues or a direct manager for help.
In a press release, Heather Haslam, vice-president of marketing at ADP Canada, said strong connections are an indicator of inclusion and employees who feel strongly connected are five-times less likely to be experiencing discrimination at work. “Leaders are responsible for creating psychologically safe spaces that build strong connections, create more inclusive environments and better position opportunities to enhance employee engagement, collaboration and creativity.”
Read: 60% of Indigenous workers feel psychologically unsafe on the job: survey