Speaking out on diversity

Black Enterprise, Dec, 2005

Our steadfast commitment to providing opportunities for success is what will continue to make Marriott a leader in the hospitality industry,

ESPN

Embracing diversity in the workplace will improve our culture. It is, however, most importantly a pragmatic business strategy that gives us a competitive advantage. The world is rapidly changing, and the most successful companies, including ESPN, understand that diversity benefits the business. We recognize that becoming a truly diverse organization is an evolutionary process. It is a journey rather than a destination. We seek institutional change where diversity is no longer a goal, it is simply what we've become. The journey will present us not only with challenges but also with unprecedented opportunities for organizational and personal growth.

Diversity is at the core of what will continue to make ESPN a successful company, The more diverse your work force, the more voices and new ideas you are going to have within your company. Ultimately, it will make your business more competitive and successful. I don't see it as anymore complicated than that. However, accomplishing that takes work and dedication, and it takes time to get there. But it is worth every ounce of effort you put into it. Our biggest initiative so far has been to focus the senior management of our company toward leadership in this area. We have to all be advocates of diversity for it to work. You have to have champions of diversity in your senior management culture carriers and then you need to push that culture clown throughout your organization. We are going top down with our training. We really want our senior management to lead by example. Then ultimately every one of our 4,000 employees will follow. It is a very powerful message to send.