#Japan #Tokyo #Diversity #Randstad #Inclusion Project

Randstad's New Initiative: 'Everyone’s Manual'

On September 3rd, the renowned staffing agency Randstad embarked on an innovative project titled 'Everyone’s Manual.' This internal initiative is designed to promote understanding among employees regarding each other’s unique work preferences and strengths. By focusing on inclusivity, Randstad aims to create a comfortable work environment where every individual can thrive.

Understanding EDI&B

Randstad’s focus on 'Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging' (EDI&B) is at the heart of this initiative. The company emphasizes that equity means not providing a one-size-fits-all environment. Instead, it seeks to understand each employee's personal work style—what Randstad terms 'How I Work Best.' The project encourages employees to recognize their distinct characteristics and supports them with tailored assistance.

Rather than viewing diverse backgrounds and abilities as factors requiring special considerations, Randstad urges staff to reframe these aspects as everyone’s unique 'manual.' This perspective is designed to foster a workplace culture that appreciates individuality and collaborative support.

Podcast Format for Learning

The 'Everyone’s Manual' project will be delivered through an engaging podcast format. Each episode, lasting approximately 15 to 20 minutes, will feature interviews with employees from various backgrounds. These guests will share insights on their personal characteristics, strengths in the workplace, handy tips on managing their responsibilities, and examples of effective support from their colleagues. The format is designed to allow for casual learning during work breaks or lunch hours, making it accessible to all employees.

First Episode Details

The inaugural guest of this series is Mitsuki Ikuno from the Saitama branch's driver department, facilitating a broader discussion around diverse work styles. This accessible medium will help reinforce a deeper understanding among employees, enabling them to recognize and appreciate the diverse spectrum of their coworkers.

Comments from HR Management

Naoko Dobashi, the Manager of EDI&B and Employer Branding, highlights the importance of recognizing that 'normal' work styles vary significantly among individuals. The company's goal with the 'Everyone’s Manual' project extends beyond merely establishing guidelines—it's about cultivating a genuine culture of mutual understanding and inclusivity within the organization. By encouraging employees to communicate their unique manuals, Randstad aspires to create an environment where everyone can shine and reach their highest performance potential.

Recognition for DEI Efforts

Randstad’s dedication to promoting diverse, equitable, and inclusive workplaces has not gone unnoticed. The company has been recognized in the book 'Companies Where You Want to Work: DEI Edition 2', published by Cross Media HR Research Institute. This publication underscores Randstad’s commitment to progressive DEI management and its innovative approaches.

Aligning with Strategic Goals

The launch of the 'Everyone’s Manual' project stands as a strategic move to further enhance Randstad’s EDI&B initiatives. By focusing on ground-level execution and fostering mutual understanding, this new initiative promises to elevate workplace culture across the company.

About Randstad

Founded in 1960 and headquartered in the Netherlands, Randstad is a globally recognized leader in staffing services, employing approximately 38,000 personnel across 39 countries. The organization generated revenue of €42.537 billion in 2025, marking its position as the largest staffing service provider globally. Randstad emphasizes the importance of providing equal opportunities and understanding the dynamics of the labor market to assist businesses in building diverse and flexible workforces that meet their needs.

Randstad is committed to creating a better working world for everyone through its strategic vision and by offering a broad range of services tailored to the changing employment landscape.