The importance of human rights in the workplace: Insights from Jovana

Have you ever wondered what it truly means to have an inclusive workplace? Or how companies can prioritize human rights while fostering a positive work culture? In one of the episode of our podcast seriers, Youth squad, we had an enlightening conversation with Jovana, the customer experience taining manager at Cake—a software company known for its commitment to inclusivity and human rights. We explored the critical importance of creating a workplace culture that respects human rights and promotes diversity, especially in regions where such values may not be widely upheld.

We started the episode by addressing some pressing issues in many workplace environments, such as discrimination, the gender pay gap, and the lack of support for marginalized groups. These challenges highlight the urgent need for companies to adopt a human rights approach—not just for the sake of compliance, but to enhance overall workplace morale and productivity. It’s not just about marking boxes; it’s about honestly caring for your employees' well-being and creating a space where everyone feels valued.

The importance of human rights in the workplace

Jovana emphasized that respecting human rights should be the bare minimum for any organization. It’s about creating a foundation for a healthy work environment where employees feel respected and empowered. This respect fosters a culture where employees can be themselves, which in turn leads to higher job satisfaction and productivity.

What can companies do?

• Have clear policies that protect human rights and ensure they are well communicated to all employees
• Provide platforms for employees to voice their concerns and experiences without fear of retaliation
• Implement regular training sessions on human rights and inclusivity to keep everyone informed and engaged

Quality over quantity in recruitment

We also discussed Cake's approach to recruitment, where the focus is on bringing in quality candidates rather than simply filling positions. Our guest, explained that the recruiting team is dedicated to finding individuals who align with the company's values, which enhances the overall work environment. This not only benefits the company but also ensures that employees are surrounded by like-minded individuals who share a commitment to inclusivity and respect.

Recruitment best practices should be reflected through:

• Prioritizing candidates who align with the company's values and culture.
• Conducting thorough interviews that assess not only skills but also cultural fit
• Using diverse hiring panels to ensure a fair and unbiased recruitment process

Diversity and inclusion within company 

Jovana shared her belief that a diverse workforce fosters a sense of inclusion and tolerance among employees. Working alongside individuals from various backgrounds and experiences creates a safe space for self-expression and personal growth. This inclusive environment encourages employees to connect on different levels, leading to stronger relationships and a more cohesive team.

Cake actively supports human rights and inclusivity through various initiatives. Our guest, highlighted the importance of hosting events and workshops on critical topics like mental health, diversity and inclusion. For example, during Pride Month, the company organized discussions on workplace diversity, allowing employees to share personal stories and experiences. These initiatives not only raise awareness but also build a sense of community among employees.

Challenges of promoting human rights in less supportive environments

We also tackled the challenges companies face in regions where human rights are not strongly supported by legislation. Jovana acknowledged that it can be difficult for smaller businesses to uphold these values, especially in environments where they may face criticism. However, she believes that building a strong brand that reflects a commitment to human rights is essential, even in challenging contexts.

The importance of advocacy and support

As we concluded the episode, we discussed the crucial role of advocating for human rights in the workplace. It's not just about following to policies, it's about building a culture where everyone feels respected and valued.

How to contribute and support:

• Advocate for human rights by continuously promote human rights and inclusivity within the workplace.
• Create an environment where employees feel valued and respected.
• Inspire through experience by sharing personal experiences and insights to encourage others to develop inclusive environments

Through Jovana's personal stories and insights, we gain a deeper understanding of how companies can cultivate a culture of respect and support, leading to a more positive and productive work environment.

For more insights, tune into the episode "Human rights in the workplace" on the Youth Squad podcast on Spotify, Deezer and YouTube channel.