Curtis Robinson, C&R Development Company

Why is workplace diversity important?

All corporations must realize that diversity in the workplace will ultimately create an atmosphere of understanding with multiple cultures. This typically bodes well for the company’s customer base and community interaction. We have also found that when a positive diversity environment is in place, our company typically can attract excellent employees when in an expansion mode. Perhaps one of the more significant highlights is that our employee retention is exemplary. This has prevented continuous interviewing, which is both time consuming and costly. As we observe our day to day operation, what ranks very high is the personal satisfaction in knowing that you’ve created workplace diversity which has actually fulfilled the old cliché “dream it and do it.”

How does your organization promote diversity?

C&R Development seeks out Minority Business Enterprise/Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (MBE/DBE) subcontractors to participate in construction projects. Our company strives to exceed the minority participation goals that are set forth in every project. We have, to date, successfully accomplished our own goal, which has no limitations. Representatives from our company attend most diverity seminars conducted by the State of Connecticut. These sessions are typically followed by networking opportunities where most attendees can attract additional sources to enhance and promote their diversity. Most outreach programs coordinated by both the public and private sector can dramatically impact diversity. It is also important to participate in organizations such as the Certified Minority Supplier, the Chamber of Commerce, and other civic and business oriented organizations.

Promoting diversity in today’s workplace is not a difficult task, however, organizations must always be focused on this goal to accomplish this end.

What factors are most important in managing a diverse workplace?

The most important aspect in managing a diverse workplace is working with the employees, especially in areas where there is evidence that assistance is required. This maximizes a spirit of cooperation and results in an efficient operation. Simply put, our company believes in on-going and continuous training. This is actually one of the fun segments of running a company. This enables management to work side by side with the work force. As a result, relationships are cemented, productivity increases, mutual respect blossoms, and it ultimately takes all of the mystery out of the workplace.

It is difficult to express what this award means to me and my company. It is said that you are only as good as the people behind you. Giving of yourself makes you a leader. If you are honest, sincere, consistent and genuine, you’re a leader. If you can effectively organize, delegate, and supervise, you’re a leader. With this type of work force, always be ready to bend and you’ll NEVER worry about being broken. This style of management and leadership has, over the years, created a group of individuals who are achievers. They’re creative, motivated and, are, in their own right, masters of their craft.

Remember, make it fun, because it is fun!

How does a diverse workplace better serve your organization’s clients or customers?

A diverse workplace should not simply be put in place to better serve an organization’s clients or customer base. Ideally, it should be a natural end in itself, evolving as the only way to successfully conduct one’s business. Many of our clients are municipalities and states. If a company genuinely believes in a diverse workplace, these clients will, in most instances, observe how your organization operates and understand its composition.

Over many years, having always subscribed to a diverse workforce, I can only say that it has brought me and my company much success and has been most gratifying to me, my customer base, and my beloved family.

Position: Principal

Company: C & R Development Company

Location: East Granby

Category: Leadership (Individual)