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Minority Report Business Series

Xerox Canada: a "Diverse" Employer

Xerox Canada is one company that actively recruits minorities because they’re looking to hire the best. Today in our business series we look at Xerox’s employment strategy.

Dr Hadi Mahabadi left his native Iran after Xerox offered him a lucrative position with the company. Mahabadi chose Xerox Canada because he says they respect and value diversity.

"Personally I did not have barriers but Xerox helped me where ever I desired to upgrade my skill."

Xerox Canada says they are successful because of their diverse workforce – they say it's about hiring the best candidates no matter where people come from.

As most large to mid-size companies expand globally, company CEO’s and managers recognize that ignoring diversity just isn’t economically sound.

For companies to succeed, it’s important to have people that can communicate the needs of their clients and their customer base. And that's something that Tony Martino, Vice-President of Human Resources strongly believes in.

"Both in Canada and globally we are focused in having participation in our workforce that mirrors what the market is like."

Martino observes their commitment to workplace diversity is paying off, last year they were ranked by the Globe and Mail as one of Canada's 50 best employers. He further underlines that they've accomplished this by actively promoting, retaining and recruiting visible minorities.

"There is a process that has been identified to ensure that we are tapped into the best talent from a global perspective the process does ensure that people we need get integrated into our work environment."

As for Dr. Hadi Mahabadi, he knows he made the right decision by accepting Xerox Canada's job offer and immigrating Canada.

And Martino says having managers like Mahabadi proves diversity has helped make their company not just good but great.

For more information, pick up the March 29th issue of Canadian Business or visit the Minority Report section on OMNITV.ca.