Originally published October 10, 2022 , updated on January 17, 2023

From tech giants to financial powerhouses, the companies leading the way in diversity hiring and incentives are among the largest names in their respective industries. And there’s good reason for that. 

Numerous studies have shown that organisations with a diverse workforce perform better than those who don’t. In fact, a study by McKinsey reported that companies in the top quartile for gender diversity are 15% more likely to experience financial returns above their respective national industry medians. The same study found that organisations in the top quartile for ethnic diversity are 35% more likely to experience increased profits above their respective national industry medians. 

So, it’s clear that diversity isn’t just the right thing to do – it also makes good business sense. However, diversity and inclusion are still underappreciated within the broader business sphere. Society is still experiencing gaping holes in the hiring process, within management teams, and across workspaces. 

But some companies are shifting the tide and leading by example, and they happen to hold high authority in their relevant industries. When organisations and major corporations pioneer paths of inclusivity, the world will follow. 

Here are the top four companies paving the way to a more diverse and inclusive work mentality today. 

But first,

Why Diversity and Inclusion Matter

There are various reasons for this, but one of the most important is that diverse organisations can better identify and capitalise on new opportunities. Diverse teams are more creative and innovative, as they can bring a wider range of viewpoints and experiences to bear on problem-solving initiatives. 

Companies with a diverse workforce can better attract and retain top talent. In an increasingly competitive marketplace, these organisations can position themselves as employers of choice, giving them a significant competitive advantage. To put it simply, diverse organisations perform better.

With that being said, below are just a few of the companies worldwide that are excelling when it comes to diversity hiring.

Four Companies Making Headway in Diversity and Inclusion Efforts

Johnson & Johnson

J&J have long been committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. The organisation’s Global Diversity and Inclusion vision is “to maximise the global power of diversity and inclusion, to drive superior business results and sustainable competitive advantage.” 

To this end, J&J have pumped resources into creating an inclusive environment for all employees. Programmes such as the Inclusion Council and the mentoring program “Proud” help ensure everyone feels comfortable and respected in the workplace. J&J is also actively promoting diversity within the wider community through initiatives such as its partnership with the National Urban League. To date, the company has the title of one of the best companies on the Working Mother list, showcasing its commitment to supporting mothers in the working world. 

Johnson & Johnson is undoubtedly one of the world’s largest healthcare companies, with a diverse workforce of over 135,000 employees. The company has appointed a Chief Diversity Officer to ensure that all employees feel valued and included. This role requires the chief to report directly to the CEO and Chairman, ensuring that diversity is a top priority for the company. The Chief Diversity Officer is responsible for leading initiatives that promote inclusion and equity within the workplace. These initiatives include unconscious bias training, diversity awareness campaigns, and flexible working arrangements.

By prioritising diversity, Johnson & Johnson sends a clear message to its employees: everyone is welcome here.

Mastercard

Mastercard is a leading global payments and technology company. It’s main objective is to connects consumers, businesses, financial institutions, and governments with one another. Today, it operates in more than 210 countries and territories. 

The company strives to create an inclusive environment where everyone can thrive. It is regularly recognised for its commitment to diversity. Mastercard has consistently been named one of the 50 Best Companies for Diversity by DiversityInc.

Diversity is essential to innovation, and Mastercard knows that. The company understands that different perspectives lead to better insights and better decisions. That’s why they try to fostering a diverse and inclusive environment where everyone can thrive.

Holding the title of one of the 50 Best Companies for Diversity is certainly a testament to Mastercard’s dedication to creating an inclusive environment. The company will continue to strive for diversity to drive better insights, better decisions, and better products.

BrandXR

BrandXR is a leading Augmented Reality platform. The company’s edge is its commitment to being no-code, making the versatile application accessible for everyone. 

BrandXR founders Moody Mattan and Kunal Patel both hail from underrepresented backgrounds. Today, they are building a welcoming workplace committed to diversity, inclusion, and creativity. BrandXR’s technology makes it easy for anyone to create AR experiences without coding or, in the same way, technical expertise. 

BrandXR is on a mission to make AR accessible to everyone. It uses its platform to break down the barriers that have kept AR out of reach for most people. Moody and Kunal are passionate about using their platform to empower creators from all backgrounds and are building a team that reflects their commitment to diversity.

To enhance their efforts and put their motivations into play, they have adopted numerous programmes. These particularly include: 

• Specific mental health days for struggling employees
• Menstruation leave 
• Assessment of abilities to ensure every employee is comfortable and also capable within their position
• Diversity initiatives for their suppliers and contractors, ensuring inclusion efforts span outside the company too
• Investing in local diversity, equality, and inclusion in non-profit organisations

They recently appointed an on-staff Diversity and Inclusion leader to continue these efforts. This leader will be responsible for developing policies and programmes that promote a culture of diversity and inclusion. BrandXR is hiring remotely to reach a wider pool of candidates. 

By taking these steps, BrandXR conveys that they focus on creating a workplace where everyone can certainly thrive.

General Motors

General Motors is committed to making its workforce, supply chain, and also communities as diverse as the customers and communities it serves. The company has a record of taking first steps in DEI – from being the Fortune 500’s first company with an African-American director on its Board to becoming the first automaker with a Chief Diversity Officer. 

Most recently, GM joined the Paradigm for Parity coalition, committing to achieving gender parity in leadership roles by 2030. In 2014, the organisation became the first in the industry to elect a female CEO, and in 2018, the first to harbour both a female CFO and CEO.

As GM continues its work to build an inclusive culture, it will stay focused on identifying and addressing hidden biases, developing diverse talent, and increasing supplier diversity. By doing so, GM will create even more opportunities for people of all backgrounds to thrive.
Learn more about incorporating effective strategies to enhance diversity and inclusion in the workplace to experience unparalleled business growth. Alternatively, contact Goodman Lantern to discuss your DE&I communications strategy.

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