Gender diversity can be a polarising topic in big companies. Swiss Re holds some important lessons on how to foster a diverse environment with flexibility and inclusiveness for everyone.
Nia Joynson-Romanzina, the head of Global Diversity and Inclusion at Swiss Re, likens people in her organisation, and beyond, to icebergs. Not because they’re cold but because there is a diversity in what is visible, from physical appearance, gender, race and age, and also a wealth of diversity underneath the surface. True diversity, she says, means embracing the invisible, as much as the visible. Understanding the invisible has also become central to shaping a diverse and inclusive culture at the company.
“We are all diverse,” Joynson-Romanzina explains. “So when we talk about diversity it is about how each of us can bring our individual selves to the work place. If you can be who you are and you feel included and accepted your motivation and ideas will help the company’s success now and in the future. A diverse workforce will make us more competitive and stronger.’”
via Inclusive Leadership: Unlocking Diverse Talent | INSEAD Knowledge.
