Working on diversity and inclusivity
By Wade Foster • October 12, 2021
Zapier is dedicated to building an open and inclusive work environment—one that's safe for people of all backgrounds.
This takes effort. There's always more work to be done toward that goal. We think it's worth pursuing, though. Diverse teams are more creative and build better products. They make better decisions and have more successful companies. They're better able to represent the global community at large.
At Zapier, we also think that hiring and fostering a diverse team is just the right thing to do. We've had candid conversations as a company about the experience of our teammates through the employee lifecycle—from the first impression we make as a company to our internal promotion process to our exit interview. We’ll continue to have those candid conversations and to invest in our efforts to improve.
Several team members suggested publishing a public changelog of each step we've taken to improve our hiring process. This is that living document.
The changelog in chronological order
- Invested in our Employee Resource Group (ERG) leaders by compensating Chairs and Vice-Chairs with an annual stipend. Additionally, all ERG leads were provided with external professional development and coaching.
- Expanded our ERG program by providing a formal application process for adding new ERGs and ensuring each ERG receives program funding and strategic planning support. ERGs were also provided with funding and a dedicated “ERG Lounge” at our annual retreat so they had space for ERG members to network and connect.
- Designed and delivered an allyship curriculum, including async lessons and an all-company panel during our annual retreat.
- Strengthened how DIBE team consults on People tactics, ensuring strategic talent work considers the needs of underrepresented stakeholders and ERGs.
- Developed guidelines for sociopolitical and crisis response, including a crisis response fund for Zapiens needing monetary support during difficult times.
- Reviewed and improved our internal job mobility documentation to increase accessibility, consistency, and transparency. Our goal is to ensure equitable processes for all Zapiens who want to advance their career within Zapier.
- Updated our interviewer training to ensure all candidates have a positive, consistent, and equitable hiring experience with Zapier.
We have several initiatives currently in progress, and we'll continue to update here when they're implemented. If these are actions you'd want your future employer to take, please submit an application.
