Creating an Inclusive Workplace: How Companies are Attracting and Nurturing LGBTQ+ Talent

by Team Iamsafeatwork

20-06-2023

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In a significant step towards fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), several leading companies in India, including Capgemini, GE, Flipkart, Tata Steel, Wipro, Accenture, and Goldman Sachs, are actively seeking to attract and retain LGBTQ+ talent. By implementing robust inclusive policies and rolling out initiatives, these organizations aim to tap into a wider talent pool while promoting acceptance and equality within their workforce.

Expanding Talent Pool and Addressing Skill Gaps:

Recognizing the importance of tapping into every talent pool to address talent and skill gaps, organizations have embraced the Supreme Court’s decision to abolish the law criminalizing same-sex relations in India. This landmark ruling has paved the way for more acceptance and inclusivity towards LGBTQ+ employees.

Capgemini’s Proactive Hiring Approach:

Capgemini, for instance, has taken proactive steps to hire from the LGBTQ+ community. Sarika Naik, CMO and Chairperson of Diversity, India, at Capgemini, highlights the need for organizations to embrace diversity and tap into all available talent pools. Capgemini has been actively recruiting LGBTQ+ employees and has put in place policies such as partner medical insurance coverage for employees in same-sex relationships and all-gender washrooms at its offices. The company also provides medical insurance coverage for gender affirmation surgery and offers a month-long paid leave to support transition.

Tata Steel’s Commitment to Transgender Inclusion:

Tata Steel has been leading the way in recruiting from the transgender community. The company started recruiting transgender individuals in 2021, and the number has significantly grown since then. Jaya Singh Panda, Chief Diversity Officer at Tata Steel, mentions that they are in the process of recruiting 30 transgender persons for their Shared Services Division in Jamshedpur. By actively embracing transgender inclusion, Tata Steel showcases its commitment to building a diverse and inclusive workforce.

Flipkart’s Inclusive Hiring Practices:

Flipkart, a prominent e-commerce company, has also recognized the importance of inclusivity in its workforce. The company began hiring people from the transgender community in its supply chain operations last year, resulting in 30 individuals joining the organization. Krishna Raghavan, Chief People Officer at Flipkart, mentions the company’s project Indradhanush, which focuses on providing opportunities to transgender individuals. Additionally, Flipkart joins other companies in celebrating Pride Month in June, demonstrating their commitment to LGBTQ+ rights and inclusivity.

Accenture’s Inclusive Policies and Strategic Partnerships:

Accenture has taken significant measures to embed LGBTQ+ inclusion in its policies. The company has extended its medical insurance benefits to include facial reconstruction surgery for transgender employees. Moreover, it has enhanced its policies to ensure that partners of LGBTIQ+ staff and their families are included. Lakshmi C, Lead of Human Resources at Accenture in India, highlights the company’s strategic external partnerships, pride employment fairs, and employee referrals as avenues to attract the right LGBTQI+ talent. Accenture also invests in a six-month, inclusive internship program to bridge skill gaps when necessary.

Conclusion:

By actively seeking and nurturing LGBTQ+ talent, companies in India are paving the way for a more inclusive and diverse workforce. These organizations are not only strengthening their inclusive policies but also expanding their talent pool and addressing skill gaps. As India progresses towards greater acceptance and equality, initiatives like these serve as important stepping stones in building a society and corporate environment that values and respects every individual, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity.