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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Last year you put in a lot of effort for the LGBT*IQ community at the Commerzbank and brought the issue right up to Board level. What has happened since then?

Jenny Friese: Through various activities we have achieved more visibility including an event about LGBT*IQ-involvement as a factor of commercial success, participated in the CSD in Berlin with our own truck and we have had a reading with Jens Schadendorf. Along with our LGBT*IQ-staff-network Arco of which I am the patron we have sensitized many people within the bank making for a more open community spirit. As a result, many staff have told their own stories in our staff magazine therefore making themselves available as role models.

Many people fear that outing themselves will damage their career. What has to happen to reduce and even eliminate this fear altogether?

Jenny Friese: It is incredible that staff even today still have such worries. For diversity to become normal we have to experience the relevant values within the company and create structures to make possible open interaction which is free of prejudice.  Visible role models who have outed themselves help as do diversity units and consistent management behaviour such as dealing with discriminatory comments and behaviour. This is clearly a challenge for everybody – irrespective of their sex, nationality, health or sexual orientation.

Why are heterogenous teams more successful in companies?

Jenny Friese: The answer to this is, in the meantime, proven by many studies such as that of the Institute for Diversity and Anti-discrimination Research Out in the Office?! And this does not just apply to bringing together and promoting many different people irrespective of origin, age, sex or other characteristics for LGBT*IQ Diversity.  The more heterogenous teams are and the more they make for an open culture the more they will be prepared to go in new directions and drive forward innovation. Based on my own experience I can say at least that diverse teams always produce outstanding results.

Last year you put in a lot of effort for the LGBT*IQ community at the Commerzbank and brought the issue right up to Board level. What has happened since then?

Jenny Friese: Through various activities we have achieved more visibility including an event about LGBT*IQ-involvement as a factor of commercial success, participated in the CSD in Berlin with our own truck and we have had a reading with Jens Schadendorf. Along with our LGBT*IQ-staff-network Arco of which I am the patron we have sensitized many people within the bank making for a more open community spirit. As a result, many staff have told their own stories in our staff magazine therefore making themselves available as role models.

Many people fear that outing themselves will damage their career. What has to happen to reduce and even eliminate this fear altogether?

Jenny Friese: It is incredible that staff even today still have such worries. For diversity to become normal we have to experience the relevant values within the company and create structures to make possible open interaction which is free of prejudice.  Visible role models who have outed themselves help as do diversity units and consistent management behaviour such as dealing with discriminatory comments and behaviour. This is clearly a challenge for everybody – irrespective of their sex, nationality, health or sexual orientation.

Why are heterogenous teams more successful in companies?

Jenny Friese: The answer to this is, in the meantime, proven by many studies such as that of the Institute for Diversity and Anti-discrimination Research Out in the Office?! And this does not just apply to bringing together and promoting many different people irrespective of origin, age, sex or other characteristics for LGBT*IQ Diversity.  The more heterogenous teams are and the more they make for an open culture the more they will be prepared to go in new directions and drive forward innovation. Based on my own experience I can say at least that diverse teams always produce outstanding results.

Last year you put in a lot of effort for the LGBT*IQ community at the Commerzbank and brought the issue right up to Board level. What has happened since then?

Jenny Friese: Through various activities we have achieved more visibility including an event about LGBT*IQ-involvement as a factor of commercial success, participated in the CSD in Berlin with our own truck and we have had a reading with Jens Schadendorf. Along with our LGBT*IQ-staff-network Arco of which I am the patron we have sensitized many people within the bank making for a more open community spirit. As a result, many staff have told their own stories in our staff magazine therefore making themselves available as role models.

Many people fear that outing themselves will damage their career. What has to happen to reduce and even eliminate this fear altogether?

Jenny Friese: It is incredible that staff even today still have such worries. For diversity to become normal we have to experience the relevant values within the company and create structures to make possible open interaction which is free of prejudice.  Visible role models who have outed themselves help as do diversity units and consistent management behaviour such as dealing with discriminatory comments and behaviour. This is clearly a challenge for everybody – irrespective of their sex, nationality, health or sexual orientation.

Why are heterogenous teams more successful in companies?

Jenny Friese: The answer to this is, in the meantime, proven by many studies such as that of the Institute for Diversity and Anti-discrimination Research Out in the Office?! And this does not just apply to bringing together and promoting many different people irrespective of origin, age, sex or other characteristics for LGBT*IQ Diversity.  The more heterogenous teams are and the more they make for an open culture the more they will be prepared to go in new directions and drive forward innovation. Based on my own experience I can say at least that diverse teams always produce outstanding results.

Last year you put in a lot of effort for the LGBT*IQ community at the Commerzbank and brought the issue right up to Board level. What has happened since then?

Jenny Friese: Through various activities we have achieved more visibility including an event about LGBT*IQ-involvement as a factor of commercial success, participated in the CSD in Berlin with our own truck and we have had a reading with Jens Schadendorf. Along with our LGBT*IQ-staff-network Arco of which I am the patron we have sensitized many people within the bank making for a more open community spirit. As a result, many staff have told their own stories in our staff magazine therefore making themselves available as role models.

Many people fear that outing themselves will damage their career. What has to happen to reduce and even eliminate this fear altogether?

Jenny Friese: It is incredible that staff even today still have such worries. For diversity to become normal we have to experience the relevant values within the company and create structures to make possible open interaction which is free of prejudice.  Visible role models who have outed themselves help as do diversity units and consistent management behaviour such as dealing with discriminatory comments and behaviour. This is clearly a challenge for everybody – irrespective of their sex, nationality, health or sexual orientation.

Why are heterogenous teams more successful in companies?

Jenny Friese: The answer to this is, in the meantime, proven by many studies such as that of the Institute for Diversity and Anti-discrimination Research Out in the Office?! And this does not just apply to bringing together and promoting many different people irrespective of origin, age, sex or other characteristics for LGBT*IQ Diversity.  The more heterogenous teams are and the more they make for an open culture the more they will be prepared to go in new directions and drive forward innovation. Based on my own experience I can say at least that diverse teams always produce outstanding results.

In simple words, Campana & Schott is providing advice to their customers on strategies to keep their finger on the pulse. What role does diversity play here?

Dr. Christophe Campana: Events such as climate change, radicalization, populism, etc. have led to the point that more and more people are concerned with meanings and values. Most people have recognized that “healthy” progress and prosperity cannot be done without moral values and sustainability. Diversity is one of these values and therefore an essential part of this overarching development. Excluding people due to their sexual orientation promotes hatred and prevents a sustainable better future for everyone. There is still a lot to be done here.

Campana & Schott received three awards as a “Great Place to Work”. The list of your commitments towards the diversity of your employees is long and you are building on long-term cooperation instead of “hire and fire”. Has the PROUT EMPLOYER cooperation been the last piece of the puzzle for an open and inclusive work environment?

Dr. Christophe Campana: There will probably never be that one last piece of the puzzle. For us, the cooperation with PROUT EMPLOYER is an important part of our commitment, which we are constantly developing further. I keep learning new things, e.g. only recently the Federal President Steinmeier made a very clear point in the context of the anti-racism riots where he said: “It is not enough to not be a racist. We have to be anti-racists.” This view also applies to me with regard to diversity and our corporate culture. I am convinced that in the future there will always be topics that managers should deal with in the interests of their company: openness and tolerance are here to stay.

What advice would you give to companies that are just starting their commitment to LGBT*IQ diversity?

Dr. Christophe Campana: At Campana & Schott there have always been employees who have lived out their homosexuality openly. Therefore, homophobia had no place in our company. For a long time, I believed that this was enough. Only later, I understood that as an entrepreneur you have to take a visible and public position on this in order to reach out to the community and signal: Live your sexuality as you want: openly or not – both are fine. But if you want to live it openly, you will not suffer any disadvantage in our company. It’s just a small step, but it does a lot – and only good.

From our experience we know that LGBT*IQ diversity has the greatest impact in a company when executives, diversity management and the company’s corporate networks regularly come together. Is that also your recipe for success?

Dr. Christophe Campana: Yes, I myself regularly meet with our LGBTQ+ network and have learned a lot from these meetings, e.g. the so-called “Monday lie”, when colleagues chat with each other during the coffee break about the last weekend and some prefer to describe their life partner as “a friend”.

I could immediately emphasize the stress associated with this white lie when my employees told me that they had felt like this for very long periods of time, sometimes even years. That is why the close exchange is so crucial: You start to better understand the problems of the community and can actually start changing things more targeted.

The last question: There are turbulent times coming for employees. Considering your commitment to diversity, how would you react to the statement that starting from now, there are more important topics than LGBT*IQ diversity?

Dr. Christophe Campana: There is a difference between the urgency and the importance. The unexpected severity with which the corona pandemic has affected all areas of life resulted in existential challenges for many companies which we will have to deal with. Just because you douse a fire in an apartment doesn’t mean that your general life in the apartment becomes unimportant. This crisis overshadows many issues, which, however, do not become irrelevant – on the contrary: I am convinced that companies with an open and appreciative culture will get through the crisis better. Diversity is an essential part of corporate identity and contributes to the performance and resilience of an organization.

Dear Dr. Campana, thank you for talking to us!