Showing cultural understanding in your CV is crucial. That’s because many jobs require work with people from different communities and backgrounds.
If you’ve stayed in New Zealand for some time, you’ll understand that the ability to deal with different cultures can be a crucial aspect of jobs that are advertised.
There are of course, many different cultures through the world and in New Zealand. For example, some roles call for the ability to deal with those of the Maori community. Or, other roles call for the ability to deal with an Iwi group, or engaging Whanau in an organisation’s objectives. A number of roles also call for knowledge over the Treaty of Waitangi. There are also countless examples of different cultures.
For many of these roles, it’s a must to learn about the diverse cultural elements before applying for work.
A report by Te Puni Kokiri & the rise of Maori development
A report by Te Puni Kokiri (Ministry of Maori Development) on Maori contribution to the economy shows that businesses are wise to incorporate the strategic and HR implications of the changing role of Maori in the workplace. Maori have an asset base of $10.8 billion. Much of this goes to agriculture, forestry, fishing, housing, tourism, and business and commercial assets industries.
The number of Maori participating in tertiary education is increasing. In fact, the number of Maori university graduates quadrupled between 1990 and 1996. More important, the percentage of Maori enrolled in tertiary education in 2014 was higher than that of any other individual ethnic group.
Organisations owned and run by Maori are shifting toward a technocratic structure. They are focusing more on skill level than cultural affiliation. That’s the reason Maori organisations in fields such as healthcare, education, and land management look for sophisticated candidates as well as a good knowledge of Maori culture together.
Maori Recruitment and the Treaty of Waitangi
No matter their cultural foundation, employers influence Maori outcomes through their policies on recruitment and employment. Employers also play a role in the way they purchase and deliver goods and services.
Strong business relationships with Maori communities are vital for employers. For starters, the Treaty of Waitangi’s obligations and claims settlements require that businesses frame their objectives with local Maori development. This includes any potential for joint ventures.
Second, New Zealand’s human rights legislation requires non-discrimination in recruitment, hiring, management, and incentives.
Other Ways to Ensure Cultural Sensitivity in Your CV
Businesses must adhere to occupational health and safety obligations to provide a workplace that’s safe free of harassment. Those that do business involving Maori-owned resources need to have staff members that can efficiently liaise and negotiate with them. That’s why recruiters prefer candidates that are culturally sensitive.
The whānau interview procedure is also quickly becoming popular. This interview method is where family members and other close companions attend the interview with you. It provides an excellent opportunity to convey a fuller picture of who you are as a person and potential employee.
However, it can backfire if your whānau is not ready for this. Make sure that you consider this when applying for jobs, especially with Maori-owned companies.
Regardless if you’re a Kiwi, Maori, or a recent immigrant, do not underestimate the importance of cultural sensitivity on your CV, during the interview process, and every day at work.
