“Affirmative Action Plan”

What is an Affirmative Action Plan (AAP)?

Affirmative Action Plans (AAPs) are formal documents generated by organizations to ensure their workforce’s diversity and inclusion. Though similar to a diversity and inclusion strategy, an AAP focuses especially on the hiring and retention of minority members of protected classes. These members may include people of color, veterans, and those with disabilities. Through AAPs, organizations strive to recruit, hire, and retain diverse talent. An AAP is comprised of three core components: targeted recruitment, outreach efforts, and good-faith efforts.

Affirmative Action Plan Requirements

The requirements for implementing an AAP depend largely on the organization’s size and industry. These requirements can also be affected by statutory or voluntary compliance. Typically, organizations must prepare and maintain an AAP, review job descriptions, provide annual training, perform self-evaluations, and maintain records.

Benefits of Using an Affirmative Action Plan

Organizations benefit from implementing an affirmative action plan in a number of ways. Other than being in compliance with state and federal laws, AAPs can help improve employee morale, promote trust among clients and customers, and strengthen relationships with underrepresented communities. Additionally, AAPs are a great way to identify and eliminate any potential sources of bias or discrimination in the workplace.

FAQs

Is an Affirmative Action Plan the same as a diversity and inclusion strategy?

No, an AAP is not the same as a diversity and inclusion strategy. While both focus on creating a more equitable and diverse workplace, an AAP focuses specifically on the recruiting and retention of minority members of protected classes such as people of color, veterans, and those with disabilities.

What industries or organizations typically implement Affirmative Action Plans?

It usually adopted by organizations with larger populations, such as manufacturers, private companies, and universities. However, any organization that meets certain criteria need to prepare an AAP, regardless of industry or size.

What is the affirmative action plan of HR plans?

The affirmative action plan of HR plans focuses on protecting the rights of minority members in the workplace. The plan works to eliminate any potential sources of discrimination or bias and can include recruitment and retention initiatives, training, job descriptions review, self-evaluations, and record keeping, as well as any other activities that facilitate diversity and inclusion in the workplace.