Axis Bank has launched the ‘ARISE ComeAsYouAre’ program, a noteworthy initiative aimed at building a welcoming environment for LGBTQIA+ professionals in the banking industry. This program ensures that hiring practices are fair and non-discriminatory, actively promoting workforce diversity. It is a progressive step towards genuine inclusion, setting an example in the banking industry and reflecting Axis Bank’s commitment to Diversity, Equity and Inclusion. The initiative showcases the significant efforts towards LGBTQIA+ inclusion at Axis Bank.
Harish Iyer (They), SVP & Head-Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, emphasised the importance of a fair recruitment process. “The new initiative brings together talented minds from different backgrounds. It allows us to tap into a broader range of ideas and approaches. It is crucial to have a well-defined evaluation process that minimises bias and ensures fair assessment of all candidates.”
A workplace culture with inclusive hiring practices
The ‘ARISE ComeAsYouAre’ program is a campus recruitment initiative that emphasises skills-based hiring. This program values candidates’ skill sets and potential over traditional criteria such as degrees or college reputations. The talent acquisition program is open to LGBTQIA+ individuals from any college in India. Moreover, it offers opportunities to both fresh graduates and professionals with up to five years of experience.
With the ‘ARISE ComeAsYouAre’ program, Axis Bank shows its dedication to respecting diverse identities and moving beyond traditional gender norms to create an inclusive workplace. This thoughtfully designed evaluation process minimises bias and honours each candidate’s unique background. It ensures a fair assessment for all.
LGBTQIA+ inclusion at Axis Bank: Who can apply for the program?
While the program is specifically for those who voluntarily self-identify as LGBTQIA+, allies who do not identify as LGBTQIA+ can apply for the upcoming Axis Arise edition. Many choose to remain silent about their sexual and gender identities due to concerns about workplace stigma and potential repercussions. Outing someone will take away the autonomy to share their own stories on their own terms. Therefore, specifying voluntary self-identification in the program ensures that participation is based on personal choice, thus safeguarding individuals from being involuntarily outed.
Recruiters should be an LGBTQ+ career ally.
Beyond mere rainbow branding, companies must genuinely implement LGBTQIA+ inclusion. This commitment should begin at the grassroots level, starting with fair and inclusive hiring practices that genuinely reflect the values of diversity and equality. Recruiters should definitely step up and focus on a candidate’s actual skills to avoid unconscious biases and give LGBTQ+ candidates a fair shot. Programs like Axis Bank’s ‘ARISE ComeAsYouAre’ are good examples of supporting LGBTQ+ individuals and also set a standard for other organisations to follow in reducing bias in hiring practices. This initiative underscores the importance of LGBTQIA+ inclusion at Axis Bank.
Unfair treatment towards the LGBTQ+ community
For a long time, the LGBTQ+ community has faced unfair treatment, especially at work. Discrimination, both blatant and subtle, has hurt LGBTQ+ workers, often pushing them out of their jobs. Many LGBTQ+ employees have reported being fired or not hired because of their sexual orientation or gender identity. Programs like Axis Bank’s ‘ARISE ComeAsYouAre’ are not only good examples of supporting LGBTQ+ individuals but also set a standard for other organisations to follow in reducing bias in hiring practices.
Inclusivity doesn’t stop at hiring. True inclusivity means ensuring that all employees, both new hires and long-term staff, feel supported and valued every step of the way. Axis Bank’s policies, like allowing employees to list partners for mediclaim benefits regardless of gender, sex, or marital status, show that inclusivity goes beyond the initial job offer. They also enable customers to open joint accounts with same-sex partners as nominees and choose the gender-neutral title ‘Mx’ for their accounts.
LGBTQIA+ inclusion at Axis Bank: The final thoughts
Axis Bank’s ‘ARISE ComeAsYouAre’ program is a big step towards making the banking industry more inclusive for LGBTQIA+ professionals. Through a fair and non-discriminatory hiring process that emphasises skills and potential over traditional metrics, Axis Bank is not only expanding opportunities for LGBTQIA+ professionals but also setting a new standard for diversity, equity, and inclusion. This initiative highlights the importance of a supportive workplace culture where every individual is valued and respected for their unique contributions.
Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are based on the writer’s insights, supported by data and resources available both online and offline, as applicable. Changeincontent.com is committed to promoting inclusivity across all forms of content, which we define broadly to include media, policies, law, and history—encompassing all elements that influence the lives of women and gender-queer individuals. Our goal is to promote understanding and advocate for comprehensive inclusivity.
