| | NOVEMBER - 2022MANAGEHRMAGAZINE.COM8In MyOpinionFostering an open environment where every employee can thrive and feel accepted is my top priority at Nestlé and an ongoing effort across our business. Work in this area has never been more important. Social distancing, lockdowns in many countries, and uncertainty about when the pandemic crisis will end has contributed to increased anxiety for everyone. To add to this, the pandemic's impact and burdens have fallen unevenly on some groups, and amplified inequalities. Studies show that diverse employee groups are having the hardest time. For example, there is evidence that shows women are stressed about the "double shift" as they balance a greater burden of home and care giving responsibilities; the LGBTQ+ community report disproportionate fear of losing ground at work in addition to heightened isolation and a loss of connection and belonging; while people of colour in majority-white countries are especially worried about workplace health and safety and career progression. As we navigate the pandemic, I believe the world of work will never be the same, and the hybrid work model is here to stay. As we transition to the next era of work, ensuring that diversity and inclusion remains high on the agenda is crucial. Studies show that organisations that took care of their diverse employee needs during the pandemic have weathered the crisis better than others so far. They are better positioned to steer their people towards mutual success. As a McKinsey & Company report stated, "Leaders must commit to building a more equitable and inclusive workplace to ensure a positive recovery for all."In this context, I'd like to reflect on four key things that have served us well in this time: 1. Recognising there is no one-size-fits-all strategy As a company whose workforce comprises 176 nationalities and 276,000 employees, we find that barriers to equity, cultural By Nilufer Demirkol, Global Head of Diversity and Inclusion, Nestlé [SWX: NESN]SIGNIFICANCE OF DIVERSITY, EQUITY AND INCLUSION IN A PANDEMIC WORLD
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