Creating an environment for all to thrive

Creating an environment for all to thrive

Ruolin You, Sales Operations Analyst

Outlines key tips that a workplace can do to create a welcoming environment where employees can feel comfortable coming out.

Creating an environment where everyone can thrive is about embracing diversity, offering unwavering support, and ensuring everyone feels part of the big, happy workplace community. Organizations can take these steps to create a safe environment and welcoming atmosphere where all employees, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity, can comfortably be their authentic selves.

1. Implement Clear Policies:

Start with the Onboarding Process: Make new employees feel the love and included by ensuring the onboarding materials are gender sensitive and include your DEI message.

Share Existing Regulations: Let them know upfront about your unyielding commitment to anti-discrimination and equity.

Provide Accessible Complaint Channels: Ensure there are accessible channels for reporting any discrimination or harassment issues – it is important that everyone, including new joiners, are aware about reporting path. It also promotes straight talk and quick action.

2. Training:

Provide Comprehensive Training Programs: Offer courses that cover all bases of LGBTQ+ workplace inclusion, from awareness to support during gender transition.

Invite Expert Speakers: Spice up the training sessions with expert workshops and give everyone an opportunity to enhance their understanding and widen their perspective.

Include Everyone: Encourage participation from all levels, ensuring a democratic approach for enhanced involvement and support.

3. Employee Support:

Establish LGBTQ+ Employee Resource Groups: Support the creation of dedicated groups for LGBTQ+ employees, ensuring they always have a go-to place for support within the company.

Assign Specific Personnel: Have designated, approachable staff members to address any LGBTQ+ related concerns or queries.

4. Facilities:

Ensure Inclusive Facilities: Make everyone feel accommodated by providing gender-friendly toilets and facilities.

Support Gender Expression: Let employees express themselves, even in their choice of clothing.

5. Communication:

Promote Inclusion Through Various Channels: Use every communication means possible to showcase your support for gender diversity and LGBTQ+ rights.

Distribute LGBTQ+ Friendly Messages: Keep the vibe alive by regularly sharing LGBTQ+ Friendly messages and information with all employees.

6. External Representation:

Show Visible Support for the LGBTQ+ Community: Publicly cheer for LGBTQ+ equality events and activities on LinkedIn and other social media sites.

Encourage Participation in Events: Pep up employee participation in LGBTQ+ events and parades.

Include LGBTQ+ Friendly Elements: Add a dash of LGBTQ+ Friendly elements in your ads and promo materials.

Highlight LGBTQ+Friendly Workplace: Loudly and proudly express your workplace’s commitment to being LGBTQ+ Friendly on all company platforms.

In today’s diverse world, creating a welcoming environment for everyone, including LGBTQ+ employees, is crucial for a thriving workforce. At Hitachi Vantara, we know there could be many barriers at the workplace - we're working hard to identify and remove those. We recognize that fostering a culture of belonging and appreciation is key to unlocking our collective potential. By embracing diversity, equity, and inclusiveness, we can effectively meet the evolving needs of our diverse talent, clients, and markets.