Google is the latest major U.S. company to step away from its diversity hiring goals, which were designed to boost representation from underrepresented groups.
*Google Abandons Diversity Hiring Goals: What This Means for the Tech Industry*
In a recent move, Google has announced that it will no longer pursue its diversity hiring goals, which aimed to increase representation from underrepresented groups within the company. This decision has sparked widespread discussion and debate within the tech industry and beyond.
*Background: Google's Diversity Hiring Goals*
In 2020, Google set ambitious diversity hiring goals, aiming to increase the number of underrepresented groups within its workforce. The company's goal was to have 30% of its workforce identify as underrepresented, including Black, Latinx, and Indigenous employees. However, Google has now abandoned this goal, citing that it is no longer a "meaningful" target.
*Reasons Behind Google's Decision*
Google's decision to abandon its diversity hiring goals comes after an executive order by former President Donald Trump, prohibiting companies with federal contracts from implementing diversity programs. As a federal contractor, Google falls under this order. The company has stated that it remains committed to fostering an inclusive workplace and developing products that cater to a broad user base.
*Impact on the Tech Industry*
Google's decision to abandon its diversity hiring goals has significant implications for the tech industry. Diversity and inclusion have become increasingly important issues within the tech sector, with many companies recognizing the need to increase representation from underrepresented groups. Google's decision may set a precedent for other companies to follow, potentially undermining efforts to increase diversity and inclusion within the industry.
*Google's Progress on Diversity and Inclusion*
Despite abandoning its diversity hiring goal, Google has made some progress in increasing representation from underrepresented communities. The number of Black+ and Latinx+ new hires in the US and women new hires globally has increased. However, the company's workforce still has a way to go in terms of diversity, with two-thirds of its worldwide workforce being male.
*Initiatives to Increase Diversity and Inclusion*
Google has introduced various initiatives aimed at increasing diversity and inclusion within the company. These include:
1. *Autism Career Program*: A program designed to support individuals with autism in their careers.
2. *Partnerships with diversity organizations*: Google has partnered with organizations that promote diversity in tech, such as the National Society of Black Engineers and the Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers.
3. *Diversity and inclusion training*: Google provides training programs for employees to learn about diversity and inclusion.
4. *Employee resource groups*: Google has employee resource groups for underrepresented communities, providing a platform for employees to connect and support one another.
*Conclusion*
Google's decision to abandon its diversity hiring goals has sparked significant debate within the tech industry. While the company has made some progress in increasing representation from underrepresented communities, its workforce still has a way to go in terms of diversity. Google's commitment to fostering an inclusive workplace and developing products that cater to a broad user base is commendable. However, the company must continue to prioritize diversity and inclusion initiatives to ensure that its workforce reflects the diverse user base it serves.
*Recommendations*
To increase diversity and inclusion within the tech industry, companies should:
1. *Set ambitious diversity hiring goals*: Companies should set clear and ambitious diversity hiring goals, with measurable targets and timelines.
2. *Implement diversity and inclusion training*: Companies should provide training programs for employees to learn about diversity and inclusion.
3. *Partner with diversity organizations*: Companies should partner with organizations that promote diversity in tech.
4. *Create employee resource groups*: Companies should create employee resource groups for underrepresented communities, providing a platform for employees to connect and support one another.
By prioritizing diversity and inclusion initiatives, companies can create a more inclusive and diverse workforce, ultimately driving innovation and growth within the tech industry.
