/en-gb/-/media/stresslesssite/magasin/unity-by-diversity-and-inclusion/portrait_woman_sewing_color_960x960.jpg?cx=0&cy=0&cw=1200&ch=1200&hash=494D0AA130C9DF34F07F9529C1CB5B32

Unity through diversity and inclusion

Published: 19.06.2024

Images: Ekornes AS, Siv-Elin Skoglund

People: Elin Marie Nordstrand

To learn more about the diverse and inclusive work culture we cultivate, we share some heartwarming stories and impactful initiatives that make Stressless a beacon of unity.

We pride ourselves on fostering an inclusive environment where diversity thrives. With 24 years of experience in the company, Elin Marie Nordstrand shares her insights and experiences, highlighting the importance of diversity in our workforce.

Our Diverse Culture

Boasting a workforce from various nationalities, we are proud of our diverse culture. Elin shares how this diversity enriches the workplace.

Can you give some examples of the nationalities represented within Stressless and share a bit about their background and roles in the company?

– Many of the people I work with are in production roles. I have worked closely with refugees from Syria, but we also have employees from France, the Congo, and many other countries. These individuals have joined us through our collaboration with the refugee service.

Elin's role as a mentor has been crucial in welcoming new employees into the company. She outlines our unique onboarding process that we have designed to support new hires.

What does the onboarding process look like for a new employee in the company?

– Initially, we held meetings with prospective employees to ensure that they genuinely wanted to join us. We provided tours of the facility to help them determine if this was a place they could see themselves working. Once they decided to join, we integrated them into our training program. As a mentor, I visited them daily and was readily available to answer any questions. My role also involved introducing them to Norwegian culture and daily life.

/en-gb/-/media/stresslesssite/magasin/unity-by-diversity-and-inclusion/portrait_man_sewing_960x960.jpg?cx=0&cy=0&cw=912&ch=912&hash=A1C2E213C25A16D26F7D031CA6567C8E

The Role of a Mentor

Elin's mentoring role goes beyond professional guidance, offering personal support to new employees.

What does the mentor role entail, and how does it support the new employee when joining the company?

– We have a significant focus on Norwegian education, as many new employees do not speak the language when they start. Our company require employees to learn Norwegian, so we have developed our own courses tailored specifically for our staff.

This in-house education has been crucial for new employees settling in. My role as a mentor also involves daily check-ins and addressing any questions they have, which can range from understanding local dialects to navigating public transport.

While there are challenges, the rewards of being a mentor are plentiful. Elin shares her experiences.

/en-gb/-/media/stresslesssite/magasin/unity-by-diversity-and-inclusion/elin_norstrand_960x960.jpg?cx=0&cy=0&cw=912&ch=912&hash=4D91BEED69931D2530A21C0CAFAD4FA8

What are the biggest challenges of being a mentor in the company?

– One potential challenge could involve navigating cultural disparities, especially concerning the perception of women, which can vary across cultures. New employees may need to adapt to our culture and follow our guidelines regarding gender equality.

What is the most rewarding aspect of being a mentor?

– The most rewarding aspect is engaging with the people. I enjoy spending time with them, showing them around, and helping whenever needed. The diverse personalities and backgrounds of the individuals I work with are truly enriching.

Can you tell us about the time the company won the diversity award "Mangfoldsprisen"?

– Yes, it was an exciting period of hard work that focused on hiring new employees. We collaborated with NAV and the refugee office to find suitable individuals for positions within the Stressless® production. This approach worked fantastically, and we succeeded in hiring many people who went on to secure permanent employment. Receiving the award was a wonderful recognition of our efforts and dedication.

Impact on the Local Community and the way forward

The diversity within the company has a positive ripple effect on the local community.

What are some benefits experienced by the local community as a result of this work?

– We need people moving here and bringing their family and children. We have many wonderful stories where new employees have decided to purchase a house, settle down and build a life here.

Elin believes there’s always room for improvement in fostering a more inclusive and engaging environment.

What do you think we, as a company, fellow human beings and colleagues, can all become better at?

– I believe we can all improve in our ability to truly see each other. It’s so important to create an environment where we acknowledge each other, communicate, and connect—even across different departments, especially in a large production setting.

Elin concludes by reflecting on the company’s commitment to diversity and inclusion.

Is there anything else that could help us better understand our culture and values?

– Our company has always been good at fostering a diverse yet inclusive workplace culture. We have a long-standing tradition of welcoming employees from all over the world. This diversity is ingrained in our company's ethos, and because of this, we have become adept at collaborating and understanding each other's perspectives.

_{Magazine arcticles}

These might also interest you

The Magazine

To make the world's best recliners, we build upon decades of material knowledge, generations of craftmanship and Nordic design. On the way, we have attracted creative people with new ideas and perspectives. When these forces meet, interesting stories arise. You only get to see our finished products. With the magazine, we would like to change that.

The Pleasures and Benefits of resting to recharge your mind

In today’s fast-paced society, where many of us are constantly on the go, and feel the cumulative toll of constant alerts vying for attention, psychologist Tomas Myklebust offers a refreshing reminder: rest is not an indulgence—it’s a necessity.

Read the article

The great Norwegian furniture rush

A Norwegian saying claims that you can create gold from stone. One proof of this is the booming furniture village of Sykkylven.

Read the article

A desire for something real

The new Stressless^® colour palette reflects our need for reconnecting with the natural world.

Read the article

Feel free to feel blue

Bring the magical hour inside, and immerse yourself in its soothing colours for as long as you desire.

Read the article

Set the table for an unforgettable evening

The stylist's best tips for decorating your party table are surprisingly simple.

Learn more

A timeless classic in a new outfit

Stressless^® Reno never goes out of style, and truly shines in this new attire.

Find out more

Boost your mood with warm colors

Feeling a bit chilly, both inside and out? Warm up with earthy colors!

Meet Janne Muri, Project Manager CMF

Read the article

Colours to embrace and uplift 2023

Across all sectors and markets, consumers will be yearning for colour that brings calm and joy.

Here are the key colours for 2023.

See the colours

Looking into the crystal ball of colours

When you invest in quality furniture, you probably want to make sure the colour doesn’t go out of style in a few years.

– Every year, Janne and Berit have to predict the future. How do they do it?

Read the article

Curves are in our nature

For decades, scientists have been intrigued by the fact that humans seem to have an aesthetic preference for curves over straight lines.

Why is this? Is it a learnt preference, or is it evolution?

Read the article

The future looks wooly

Wool is a natural material that is durable and long-lasting, which makes it a great choice for furniture upholstery.

When we went searching for a partner to deliver the finest wool fabrics available, we didn’t have to travel far.

Get to know the wool specialists

The importance of me-time

Taking breaks during the day is essential for maintaining your physical and mental health.

We asked a psychiatrist for her best advice on winding down.

Learn how stress impact you

Like a warm embrace

The Stressless^® Reno has been among the company’s top sellers for close to three decades.

What’s the secret behind its success?

Read the article