The One Thing Companies Need to Create an Inclusive Work Culture

Our Catalyst Award-winning initiative focused on the transformation and results of our Culture of Inclusion journey. Work began in 2007 with senior leaders renewing their commitment to diversity, inclusion and engagement in response to employee data showing that women and people of color at the company had lower retention rates than white men.

Our approach started with courageous leaders creating a Culture of Inclusion strategy.

A key element of this strategy is that, to make sustainable change, the dominant group—in this case white men—needs to be aware of the impact of their privilege, be engaged and partner with women and underrepresented groups in a meaningful way.

The work is essential to making our company a place where people are excited to come to work and build a great career. And that means that every employee is accountable for driving change. Learn more about our approach here.

Being named a Catalyst Award winner is a tremendous honor, and gives us an incredible opportunity to enhance our visibility in the global business community as an employer of choice.

Since 1987, Catalyst has recognized groundbreaking organizations with diversity and inclusion programs that have changed workplaces, communities, and lives.

And now, we join an impressive list of organizations – including 3M and BMO Financial Group, also recognized this year – offering exceptional and innovative initiatives that expand opportunities for women globally.

We can all learn from one another and share our best practices. If you have questions, suggestions, ideas – I’d love to hear from you.

Inclusion is and always will be the work of many – employees, leaders, advocates and allies – making a difference through dedication, dialogue and courageous acts.