"Think globally, act locally” is a fitting tagline for this technology company’s Diversity 3.0 mandate, the set of six guidelines that spell out its commitment to employing women and people of color and fostering cross-cultural awareness worldwide. Hiring a diverse, well-rounded workforce is important to IBM; its Project View Plus recruitment events actively seek out female professionals and underrepresented minorities, encouraging them to apply for jobs. regional conferences for multicultural women give them the opportunity to discuss their challenges and learn from leaders (many of whom become mentors). Additional seminars for minority women focus on professional development and career growth and are offered through the company’s North American Women’s Council. The company’s succession plan has had a special focus on promoting diverse workers for decades, and management provides those it considers highest-potential with coaches.

Chairman, President & CEO Samuel Palmisano
VP, Global Diversity & Workforce Programs Ronald C. Glover

At IBM, multicultural women represent…
9% multicultural women
2% of corporate executives
4% of senior managers
4% of the top earners
10% of the company hires
8% of the company promotions
11% of the company losses
Not tracked participants in mentoring programs
62% of participants in affinity groups