Diversity, or post 6

Where are we in the world of diversity?

                                I think diversity has been hijacked and people are overly sensitive to certain causes.  I do think that some diversity has value, but if you are passing up fully qualified people because someone is forcing you to hire someone less qualified for diversity issues is a bad thing.  People react to others of their same background so having qualified people from many upbringings would be helpful to some projects.  On the other hand it could be very disruptive for someone who comes from a background where “on time” means sometime within a few hours of when they were supposed to be there.

                What does diversity mean?

                Diversity means having different viewpoints, cultures, and personalities.  It could also refer to biodiversity or genetic diversity.  Diversity has also led to protected classes based on Race, color, religion, national origin, age, sex, familial status, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, veteran status, and genetic information.  I think some people use their “different status” too much to try and get what they want instead of proving they deserve to have it.

http://www.novartis.com/careers/diversity-inclusion/index.shtml

Diversity and inclusion

The key to our long-term success

To operate successfully as a global organization, it is essential that our people reflect the rich cultural, ethnic and gender diversity of our markets. As our customer base becomes increasingly diverse, a diverse talent pool of the best qualified candidates becomes a critical bridge between the workplace and the marketplace. Diversity of our workforce enhances customer insight and our ability to meet the needs of patients and other stakeholders. Retaining the most qualified talent adds value to our company, our customers, our employees, our shareholders, our suppliers and the communities in which we live and work.

We consider diversity and inclusion to encompass, but not be limited to:

• Race
• Ethnicity
• Gender
• Thinking styles
• Religion and belief
• Sexual orientation
• Age
• Differential ability
• Education
• Nationality
• Life experiences

http://www.gene.com/gene/about/diversity/  (Genentech)

Our Philosophy

Diversity is core to Genentech's values and culture. We are committed to developing an inclusive work environment where diversity of thought, style, culture, skill sets and perspective is valued and celebrated in support of individual performance and potential, as well as our business goals and mission.

Our Diversity Value

Diversity is integral to our culture and how we conduct our business. It is evident in who we are, the patients we serve, the physicians with whom we partner, the vendors we rely upon, and the communities in which we work. It strengthens our organization and contributes to our competitiveness. We are inclusive; we demonstrate respect and appreciation for diversity and encourage the richness of ideas, approaches and points of view that it enables.

Awards and Recognition

Genentech has been consistently recognized as one of the top companies to work for in the United States. Learn more about the company's awards and recognition.

DNA Groups

The Diversity Network Associations (DNA) are employee groups that have established a grassroots diversity effort through strategic community and educational initiatives both on campus and off.

Community Outreach
            Genentech believes in building and maintaining strong ties to organizations representing diversity in order to strengthen our company and the communities in which we live, work and do business.
http://www.biogenidec.com/diversity.aspx?ID=9537

We measure our success by how well we enable people to achieve and to thrive. Patients, caregivers, shareholders and colleagues deserve our best.

Biogen Idec believes in the right of all individuals to achieve their full potential. We therefore welcome all applicants for employment and strive to provide all employees with equal opportunity for advancement — regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, sexual preference or orientation, veteran or marital status.

We believe that diverse teams are stronger, smarter teams, contributing a wealth of expertise, experience and perspectives that enrich our company’s ability to contribute to a healthier, global society.

Biogen Idec’s diversity strategy focuses on the following areas:

• To provide attractive employment opportunities for diverse candidates at all levels and in all segments of our organization;
• To establish and sustain meaningful relationships with sources for candidates, community organizations and academic institutions; and
• To comply with both the letter and the spirit of all applicable laws and regulations relating to nondiscrimination and affirmative action in employment.

To thrive as an organization, Biogen Idec is committed to providing full and equal opportunity to all.

http://www.amylin.com/about/the-culture.htm

Our Culture

Amylin people flourish in a culture that values diversity, commitment and talent, and a fast-paced, stimulating environment that encourages creativity, open-mindedness, collaboration and results.

The workplace environment and job satisfaction endemic to Amylin have been recognized by The Scientist magazine, and the company has been cited as one of the best places to work in California.

With a collegial culture encouraging curiosity and continuous learning, Amylin provides an opportunity for involvement with exciting, leading-edge science in an open, authentic and honest atmosphere.

For some, the most rewarding aspect is the ability to interact with others—an open-door policy throughout the organization, and an ongoing emphasis on mentoring, coaching and professional development.

But most important is a shared commitment to improve the lives of patients living with diabetes and obesity, and the sure knowledge that Amylin people are truly making a difference.

http://www.millennium.com/aboutMillennium/OurCulture.aspx
We especially celebrate diversity in people, but also in ideas, work style and even our approach to the challenges for which we create solutions. Diversity is a significant and valued asset, and as such it is carefully cultivated