Fostering inclusive workplaces for vulnerable groups: The development of the dynamic inclusive workplace adoption model

Although the importance of inclusive employer behavior for increasing the labor market
inclusion of vulnerable workers has gained attention in both research and policy, few
efforts have been undertaken to gain insight in the development processes of inclusive
employer behavior over time. In this study, we explore the key phases and practices that
characterize the process of developing inclusive employer behavior towards vulnerable
workers. We interviewed 18 representatives of organizations that obtained a certificate for
their advanced involvement in offering sustainable and decent employment to vulnerable
workers (e.g., people with disabilities, long-term unemployed persons). Building on the
interview data, the Diffusion of Innovation Theory and Critical Incident Technique, the
Dynamic Inclusive Workplace Adoption (DIWA) Model was developed. This model describes
the processes and practices of initiating and implementing inclusive employer behavior.
In addition, the DIWA Model provides innovative insights into relapse loops in process of
building inclusive employer behavior and the practices used to redirect relapsing effects.
We discuss implications of the DIWA Model for creating inclusive work opportunities for
vulnerable groups and provide suggestions for future research endeavors