Impacting CSR in Asia

Those inclusive HR best practices serve not just a company or sector, but also the broader business community, was the resounding chorus at the recently concluded Diversity & Inclusion in Asia 2010 Conference, in Hong Kong.

The conference was organised by the Hong Kong-based Community Business, a non-profit organisation that helps companies improve their positive impact on people and communities.

Now in its fourth year, the Diversity & Inclusion conference has become the must attend diversity event for the region – raising the profile and debating the issues as they relate to Asia. The theme of this year’s conference was “Facing the Issues in Asia”, including economic and social divisions, caste, gender, homosexuality, generational diversity, disability, etc.

During the event thought leaders touched up on not just the most common aspects of diversity, but also addressing some of the tougher and more sensitive issues relevant to Asia, those that are diverse from the best practices of the West.

Nirmala Menon, CEO, Interweave, was the table host representing India at the breakout working lunch session. It was a great opportunity for Nirmala to discuss Diversity and Inclusion in India, touching upon issues pertinent to our cultural and social sensibilities.

With plans to bring the Diversity and Inclusion Conference to India next year, Interweave has partnered with Community Business to actively impact change in the D&I space in India.

Real and attainable: Building confidence in women employees

As part of our expertise in diversity management and inclusiveness, we often tackle the unique and different challenges faced by women in the corporate world, including significant obstacles that are often invisible.

Women face several challenges in the workplace, including social and cultural stereotyping, gender bias and the struggle to balance work and family. However, there is one challenge which is entirely dependent on women themselves and under their control – that of confidence.

While women in workplaces across India today seem to face fewer entry barriers, thanks to increasing anti-discrimination practices, many women create their own glass ceiling thanks to a lack of confidence that prevents them from projecting themselves and their careers effectively.

This eye-opener was among the many interactions shared with participants at our confidence-building workshop for empowering women. The workshop, titled, Yes We Can! was conducted for the employees of a global internet search major, saw candid exchange of experiences and first-hand lessons, including how to raise visibility in the workplace, 360 degree networking with peers and sub-ordinates, and working with socialised limitations.

Packed with practical tips, techniques, and examples, the workshop was aimed at enabling women to tap the power of confidence and communication to persuade, motivate, establish authority – without sacrificing their integrity, compassion, or femininity. The various modules of the workshop – Pride and Prejudice (working with and around socialised limitations); Through the looking glass (packaging yourself professionally and nurturing a unique identity at work) helps ease the path of corporate success real and attainable for the participants.

Across the world, companies have realised the need for equitable gender participation in leadership. Workshops such as this are an assertive step by companies who want to empower their women employees to achieve their highest potential. What are you doing to help your team walk this path today?