Diversity and inclusion are among the top considerations for prospective company employees, and a growing component of consumer engagement as well. How do hallmark brands and businesses make diversity work for their organizations so well? Here’s how one company does it.
DiversityInc recently named Toyota Motor North America one of its Top 50 Companies for Diversity, ranking 18th on the 2019 survey, up from number 25 last year. The company was also recognized for diverse leadership and its commitment to hiring women of color, LGBT and veteran team members.
The DiversityInc Top 50 list recognizes the nation’s top companies for diversity management. This year’s competition was improved by adding questions that connect talent programs and workplace practices to desired talent results.
“Our commitment to diversity and inclusion isn’t purely an internal or talent initiative—it’s part of our DNA as a company,” said Sandra Phillips Rogers, chief diversity officer and chief legal officer at Toyota, in a news release. “It is more important than ever that we engage team members with diverse perspectives and experiences to help us develop innovative products, solutions and services that delight our customers and enrich our communities.”
Here are some of the reasons why Toyota is rated a top company for diversity:
It’s part of the cultural fabric
Respect for People and Continuous Improvement are the two pillars that make up the foundation of the company.
Commitment to team member development and D+I education
Dynamic in-house programs develop team members to their fullest capabilities, while educating them to foster a culture of inclusion.
Learning from others to incorporate best practices
An external Diversity Advisory Board made up of diverse leaders was created to share knowledge and build accountability processes for insight, guidance and diversity of thought.
Diverse executive leadership
Consecutive year-over-year growth in diverse Black, Latino and Asian leaders.
LGBTQ+ inclusive culture
Toyota has received 12 consecutive perfect scores on the Human Rights Corporate Equality Index.
Values the importance of a diverse workforce
Continued focus on diversity as part of the recruitment process, to ensure diverse candidate pools are being reached.
Robust veterans program
Recruit and support veterans by helping them translate their military skills to civilian work.
Job creation through supplier diversity
40,000 jobs created across the U.S. through Toyota’s Opportunity Exchange, helping build strong relationships among minority- and women-owned suppliers.
Supporting an inclusive culture while strengthening the business
Over 85 team member-led Employee Resource Groups across North America, (known as Business Partnering Groups) connect, learn, and advance business through inclusion, engagement, and marketplace connection.
