International Journal of Science, Engineering and TechnologyProceeding Paper of ICSSHRT 2023 Conference
Transmutation of Workplace Gender Diversity and Inclusion in Multinational Companies in India: Fostering Inclusion of Gender Nonconforming Employees
Authors- Shoma Bakre, Dr. Jireh H.I. Seow, Dr. Shital Vakhariya
Abstract- – This study aims to evaluate the current state of gender diversity and inclusion (D&I) in multinational companies (MNCs) operating in India. The organisational workplace environment has been rapidly changing as the diversity in the workforce is increasing. It has been impacting the way organisations need to operate with respect to their D&I policies and practices. D&I has become an increasingly important topic in organisations globally, and one of the most significant dimensions of D&I is gender. Historically, emphasis has been laid on trying to create parity and equity in all aspects of employment between the male and female employees. However, despite all the efforts, policies and practices in this area, studies show that parity is yet to be achieved not only in the Indian context but globally as well. Added to this, diversity and inclusion of gender nonconforming (GNC) employees has recently emerged as a crucial component of organisational D&I policies. There is a growing recognition of the need to have workplace inclusivity for GNC employees. The traditional binary gender identity definition and the associated policies and practices pertaining to gender D&I fall short of providing an inclusive, gender-neutral workspace for all. In this transmuting milieu, it is becoming very critical for organisations to have a sound, comprehensive gender D&I strategy to be able to better manage diverse workforces for enhanced organisational outcomes. Incidentally, many organisations are yet to seriously invest in, adopt or implement D&I as a strategic tool, let alone focus on this very important expanded definition of gender diversity. The methodology used for conducting this study is rapid review of extant literature. Through the literature review, the study examines the evolution of the definition of gender identity, which now no longer can be restricted to the traditional, binary male or female construct and instead is gradually coming to be acknowledged as a spectrum. The study explores the ramifications and impact of this change in gender perspective on gender D&I policies and practices in MNCs in India. It examines the topic of inclusion of GNC employees in the workplace along with the resulting employee engagement and impact on some key measures that contribute to organisational performance including talent acquisition, employee retention, innovation, productivity, and branding. It also explores the challenges faced by GNC employees, including discrimination and lack of legal frameworks. The study also identifies strategies used by organisations to promote inclusive workplace environments for GNC employees. The findings of this review will contribute to existing literature and provide practical recommendations for MNCs in India seeking to enhance their gender D&I framework. These findings could inform policies and practices to create more inclusive and supportive environments for GNC employees. These could also guide organisations to dislodge barriers to adoption of a more comprehensive gender D&I strategy and incorporate it as an integral component of their overall organisational strategy to gain competitive advantage.
