“We all should know that diversity makes a rich tapestry, and we must understand that all the threads of the tapestry are equal in value no matter what their colour.” – Maya Angelou
Today, we live in a composite, interconnected world, a modern society, wherein diversity is shaped and determined by digitalization and globalization. With my two decades of experience working with varied industry leaders, cross borders, building culture and handling workplace dynamics, I strongly believe diversity is an asset and is the key to success.
Diversity can revolutionize the constantly evolving Bio-Pharma industry which focuses purely on helping a heterogenous population across the globe. Diversity and inclusion create a positive working environment, but building a diverse workforce is the smart business thing to do. We are in an industry which thrives on R&D and innovation, so if we need to innovate, we need to collaborate. By engaging a diverse workforce, we gain Cultural Intelligence leading to a closer integration of operations globally, attracting a broad spectrum of consumers and would out-perform our peers.
To win the marketplace, we must win the workplace. Diversity and Inclusion initiatives aims to promote an inclusive and high-performing organization culture. People are our competitive edge; formalizing Employee Resource Groups foster a sense of belonging within the organization and support to serve their communities around the world. Talking about communities, it is important for organizations to step up, voice out and advocate for diversity and tolerance in public platforms too. Partnering with organizations like GLAAD (Gay & Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation) who had been at the forefront of cultural change, accelerating acceptance for the LGBTQ community makes the D&I more authentic beyond a routine.
Diversity and Inclusion is not a onetime event, it is an ongoing transformation which can be achieved by Empathetic Leadership, where the people feel belonged, authentic, empowered and essential. Empathy leads to generosity, equality, curiosity towards other’s ideas transforming into more collaboration and ideation. In this gig economy with millennial workforce it is imperative for organizations to have an empathetic culture as lack of human touch can result in higher attrition and lower productivity. It’s time to think beyond benefits! “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you”
Implementing diversity initiatives in a thoughtful and deliberate way is critical to attain successful business outcomes. There is no such thing as right and wrong, the question is, are the actions appropriate and inclusive. Below are some of the best practices or guide to improve diversity.
A Results-oriented, strategic & innovative Global Human Resources leader who drives business through collaborative leadership to shape high-performing organizations, aligns HR initiatives to strategic business outcomes. Apart from being a trusted advisor and dynamic business partner, Ritu also wears the hat of being an ambassador of Inclusion. At Gilead she leads a multi-national HR team with strong focus on business results by a keen vision of aligning talent and integrated thought leadership skills. She does this with compassion and strongly believes that diversity drives inclusion and equity – this mantra continues to inspire passion for her craft and work for Ritu and for tall around her.