A talk with… Dr. Ariane Reinhart
“For us, an open working environment – regardless of personal differences such as sexual orientation, gender identity or origin – is a matter of course.”
You support the Out Executives as a member of the jury. Why is that topic important to you?
Dr. Ariane Reinhart: At Continental, diversity is part of our DNA and a catalyst for our innovative power. Only the diverse perspectives, characteristics, experiences and cultures of our employees make our company innovative. For us, an open working environment – regardless of personal differences such as sexual orientation, gender identity or origin – is a matter of course. As long as there is conscious or unconscious exclusion in our society, we will be fully committed to promoting the inclusion and support of our LGBT*IQ colleagues.
At Continental you have a standardized procedure in the application process, so that no prejudices are introduced when selecting candidates. What actions are taken to also reduce prejudice against LGBT*IQ-topics in the workforce?
Dr. Ariane Reinhart: Appropriate trainings and initiatives worldwide show our employees that diversity in all its facets is a matter of course, forexample, that the topic is given enough space. This includes Diversity Days at Continental, which as awareness events convey the different dimensions of diversity at our locations and highlight the importance of the topic around the world. In our current 28 Diversity Networks we aim to strengthen and make our diversity visible, to exchange views and to promote mutual understanding.
Continental operates globally. How do you rate the implementation of diversity in Germany, compared to other countries in which you are operating?
Dr. Ariane Reinhart: Comprehensive diversity management in companies is becoming increasingly recognized – and this applies worldwide. Although our economic and social environment is constantly changing, a profound cultural change – and that is what we are talking about in the appreciation and inclusion of diversity – takes time. Realizing and appreciating the added value of diversity requires a change in our mindset. We are taking the necessary clarity and rigor against discrimination of any kind, and, as a company, we have committed ourselves to this and will continue to do so.