Executive Corner - Global Workforce Diversity

Global Workforce Diversity is a cornerstone of IBM's strategy to differentiate itself as one of the world's great companies. The "global" in the title speaks to why IBM works so well. We recognize and value a culture of diversity and inclusiveness as an essential part of how we attract and retain the best talent.

Our commitment to diversity is such that we have initiated a global strategic framework for diversity to address how we respond to the plethora of emerging trends in the countries where we help our clients do business. Overall, IBM's intention is to create an environment that maximizes our employees' productivity and connection to the enterprise on a global scale.

Achieving this goal requires us to use diversity as a means to engender the innovative culture that defines IBM. That means we're extending beyond the traditional subjects of diversity — race, gender, genetics, religion, disability or sexual orientation — by aligning diversity with globalization so that it becomes a natural extension of our company's strategy. After all, if we are to succeed, we must mirror our clients and Business Partners.

IBM is especially sensitive to the accepted norms of behavior in the various countries where we operate because we have a long history of doing business outside the U.S. We have employees in more than 75 countries, and we do business in over 170 countries. Additionally, since 1975, over half of IBM's annual revenue has come from outside the U.S., while since 1993, more than half of our employees work outside this country.

We've come a long way indeed since our first written Equal Opportunity Policy called for equity in hiring "regardless of race, color, or creed" back in 1953. Now over 69 countries where IBMers work have diversity legislation in place. That's nearly double what it was just three years ago. This is the new era of diversity, the global era. To operate successfully, we must be especially mindful of how we respect and value differences among people in countries and regions.

Therefore in all realms of IBM, we will continue to ingrain workforce inclusion into our operations. Our reputation as a leader in this area springs from the active, ongoing and visible engagement of IBM's most senior leaders. Our people recognize and appreciate management's active commitment, and our clients value that commitment. We will continue to raise the bar and adjust to the changing workforce needs. Rest assured, diversity is a reality for every company. An inclusive workplace makes for a creative environment; IBM believes this — and will continue to promote global workforce diversity as its key differentiator among all others.