In this new blog series "Discussing Diversity," GLG Chief Diversity Officer Desirée Dancy answers questions about diversity, equity and inclusion and how GLG contributes to a welcoming workplace environment for all.
 

What is the overall mission of GLG?

GLG is the world’s insight network. We connect decision makers to precisely the right experts so they can act with the confidence that comes from true clarity. Our network of experts is the world’s largest and most varied source of first-hand expertise, and we recruit hundreds of new experts every day. We bring the power of insight to every great professional decision.

How do you incorporate values of diversity, equity and inclusion in the workplace?

Diversity, equity and inclusion are values at the core of GLG’s culture and are central to our aspirations as members of a global community.

It starts with recruiting and hiring—our talent acquisition team actively reaches out to candidates of diverse backgrounds, and we hire people who not only demonstrate potential for high performance, but also compassion.

Once a new GLGer joins, they have access to a host of programs, events and trainings to learn from, support and get to know each other. We also ensure all employees are aware of our no-tolerance policies for discrimination and when and how to report potential violations.

Our business leads by example on these values. Our award-winning Social Impact Program provides pro bono support to organizations on the frontlines of movements toward equity, from healthcare to the criminal justice system. Employees from all parts of the business are involved in this work.

What DE&I programs or initiatives does the company have in place?

We have seven employee-led diversity networks: Black, African, Caribbean+, Hispanic Latinx+, Asian Pacific+, LGBTQIA+, People With Disabilities+, Women+ and Veterans+.  The names of our diversity networks include the + symbol to acknowledge allyship. These groups host engaging events with outside guests and provide safe, welcoming spaces for GLGers to talk openly, create community, build solidarity and educate their colleagues about their experiences. All employees are welcome to join or participate in any of the networks and their events, whether they identify with any respective group or want to join as allies.

GLG will soon launch a Cross-Diversity Network Mentoring Program designed to be a formal and interpersonal professional development opportunity for all diversity network members regardless of tenure.

How do you ensure that all employees feel welcome, including new hires and interns?

When new GLGers start, they go through comprehensive onboarding within their first weeks to learn the business and get to know each other. All new hires are promptly introduced to our diversity and wellness programs.

Beyond the first few weeks, we foster a cohesive community through our diversity networks, as well as through wellness programs and recognition programs in which GLGers can celebrate the good work of their peers. We also engage with one another—professionally and for fun—through a robust company intranet. Additionally, the leadership team emphasizes transparency and open communication with frequent town halls, office hours and other events.

Why do you think it’s important to foster a diverse and inclusive workplace environment?

At GLG, our business is built on the idea that the right insight can change the world. That idea underpins what we do every day for our clients. It’s also what compels us to seek out and share diverse stories about ourselves and others, so we can better understand our collective experience.

We know diverse teams perform better across the board. GLG is a global company, partnering with clients around the world on a wide array of complex problems—the more diverse perspectives on our teams, the more creative we can be in our approach and solutions.

As a global industry leader, GLG is serious about its responsibility to align with movements toward equity in the communities, countries and world in which we do business.

What are you looking for in UD students who want to intern or work at your company? How can they stand out when speaking with your recruiters at our career fairs?

GLG looks for candidates who will thrive in a culture that combines high performance with compassion. Our employees are driven, strong communicators and, perhaps above all, curious, voracious learners. Learning is baked into GLG’s identity as the world’s insight network. GLGers in all parts of the business are constantly learning new subject areas, business trends and skills to serve the ever-evolving needs of our clients and support one another’s work. You’ll impress our recruiters if you can point to examples of how your curiosity manifests in professional, educational and extra-curricular experiences.
 

Are you currently hiring interns or entry-level employees?

We are hiring! We’re building out teams in our existing offices around the world—especially in Austin and New York—and we’re in the process of opening new offices in Philadelphia and Munich. We are eager to meet smart, curious people who are interested in careers at GLG, especially in business development and client solutions. Students interested in internships and entry-level positions can explore and apply for opportunities by function and geography on our website. We also post openings on job sites like LinkedIn.

Is there anything else UD students should know about your organization?

We still have work to do to fully live up to our commitment to DE&I, but we’re proud of the progress we’ve made toward ensuring that GLG is a place where every employee can grow, contribute and thrive with confidence.

We’re also proud to be recognized for our progress. We were recently named to LinkedIn’s first-ever list of the Top 25 Companies in Austin based on factors that lead to career progression, including skills growth and diversity. And this May, we received 100 percent on the Human Rights Campaign’s 2021 Corporate Equality Index and were designated as a “Best Place to Work for LGBTQ Equality.”