Overseeing inbound sales for residential and small-to-medium businesses is part of Ruiz’s job, but his public speaking skills are put to good use when his duties require addressing groups. When it comes to diversity on the small screen, he says progress is being made. “For me, it’s not necessarily about one or two shows getting it right—it’s about the choices available across all programming platforms. When it comes to programming that depicts diverse identities and ethnicities, consumers now have more options than ever before.”
What does your company/organization do to ensure all employees feel included?
Our workforce is a rich mix of backgrounds and identities, encompassing a number of ethnicities, religions, gender identities and sexual orientations. Creating an inclusive environment where engaged employees are accepted, welcomed and inspired to contribute to one another’s and the company’s success is a priority for Charter. Linking diversity and inclusion to everything we do makes us a better company— for employees, customers, partners and the communities we serve.
How can diversity be better incorporated into the recruiting process?
As we focus on becoming the employer of choice for Millennials and Generation Z, we will begin to increase the diversity of our labor force in an organic way.
Can you share a successful diversity program at your company or one you’ve observed at another company or organization?
At Charter, we recently initiated a pilot program for Business Resource Groups (BRGs). They are for employees with similar interests and backgrounds and are focused on disability, LGBT, multicultural, veterans and women. These groups help advance our culture of inclusion and contribute to our business success.
Which current television show/s best embrace diversity?
In general, I think television is making tremendous progress in embracing diversity. For me, it’s not necessarily about one or two shows getting it right—it’s about the choices available across all programming platforms. When it comes to programming that depicts diverse identities and ethnicities, consumers now have more options than ever before. We’re moving in the right direction.
