Abbott India, a subsidiary of the global healthcare company Abbott, has made impressive strides in fostering an inclusive, supportive, and growth-oriented workplace environment. With a clear focus on diversity, equity, inclusion (DEI), and employee well-being, Abbott is setting a new benchmark in the industry. Their commitment to shaping the future of work, particularly for underrepresented groups and women, is becoming a reality. This story explores how Abbott is creating winning workplaces and what we can learn from them.
Abbott’s strategic initiatives, which encompass gender diversity, talent development, and innovative wellness programmes, ensure that every employee feels valued. Moreover, these initiatives empower employees to reach their full potential. As the company strives to create a truly inclusive environment, its efforts are helping to build a winning workplace. At Abbott India, diverse voices thrive, new ideas are fostered, and employees get the tools to succeed in both their professional and personal lives.
Driving DEI through empowerment
A key element of Abbott’s workplace strategy is its focus on promoting DEI. The company is actively working towards achieving at least 45% female representation in its global management team by 2030. This will set a strong precedent for gender equality in leadership. Abbott’s various employee networks, such as Women Leaders of Abbott and PRIDE, support a diverse and inclusive workforce. These networks ensure that employees from different backgrounds get ample opportunities to excel.
Recognising the need for a more equitable corporate environment, Abbott is also focusing on integrating talent from underrepresented groups. Through STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) programmes and internships, the company plans to create opportunities for over 1,00,000 youths by 2030. The company aims to have at least 50% participation from youth from underrepresented groups. This initiative seeks to address the global STEM worker shortage. Moreover, it ensures that young professionals from diverse backgrounds get the chance to develop critical skills and contribute to the future of the workforce.
Talent development and skill enhancement
Abbott believes in the continuous growth and development of its employees. The company has established various development programmes, including sales training and digital skills enhancement. These programs aim to develop a culture of learning. These initiatives are designed to equip employees with the necessary skills to meet the demands of an ever-evolving workplace.
Programmes such as Abbott’s Global Development Week and the Career Connect portal offer employees opportunities to participate in short-term, cross-functional learning experiences. These learning gigs allow employees to gain expertise in different areas of the business. It ensures ongoing personal and professional growth. Additionally, partnerships with leading business schools in India, such as IIM Ahmedabad and ISB, provide high-potential employees with access to top-tier development programmes. It also prepares them for future leadership roles.
Employee wellness and work-life balance
Abbott India understands that a healthy, happy workforce is a productive one. The company places a high priority on employee well-being. They offer flexible work arrangements and wellness programmes that support employees’ physical, mental, and emotional health. Its flagship wellness programme, BeStrong, focuses on four key areas: financial, social, physical, and mental/emotional wellness.
From exercise challenges and mental health awareness sessions to financial planning education and community-building initiatives, Abbott is creating winning workplaces. These efforts ensure that Abbott employees have access to comprehensive support systems. The Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) provides round-the-clock resources for employees dealing with personal or professional challenges. It ensures that they always have a support network to rely on.
Innovative use of technology for employee engagement
It is no secret that technology plays a crucial role in enhancing employee engagement and efficiency. Abbott has embraced digital innovation by launching AI-enabled platforms such as the SmaHRty chatbot. This HR chatbot provides real-time assistance to employees. Moreover, it streamlines processes and makes it easier for employees to access the information they need.
The company’s focus on digitisation and automation has not only improved employee convenience but also enhanced collaboration and innovation across the organisation. As the workplace continues to evolve, Abbott remains at the forefront of using technology to create a seamless and productive work environment.
Abbott is creating winning workplaces: Commitment to a balanced future
Abbott is not only focused on the present but also committed to shaping the future of work. The company regularly assesses its policies and practices through initiatives like the ‘Your Voice Counts’ survey. It ensures that employee feedback is taken into account when implementing new strategies. This focus on continuous improvement helps Abbott maintain its status as an inclusive place to work. Abbott is creating winning workplaces by ensuring that the employees feel valued, engaged, and connected.
The final thoughts
With its strong emphasis on DEI, employee well-being, and innovative talent development practices, Abbott is truly setting an example of how to create a winning workplace. By creating an inclusive culture, providing growth opportunities, and prioritising wellness, the company ensures that its employees are equipped to succeed in all aspects of their lives. As Abbott India continues to evolve and adapt to the changing needs of its workforce, it remains a leader in building workplaces that not only excel in performance but also foster a sense of community and belonging.
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 broadly define as 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.
