SMYK received the Diversity Charter! This is an award that highlights the presence and acceptance of DEI values (diversity, equity, inclusion) in organizations.
What exactly are these values and how do they manifest in SMYK?
Diversity means recognizing and appreciating the differences among employees in terms of gender, age, ethnicity, nationality, sexual orientation, disability, education, and work experience. At SMYK, this value is reflected in our marketing communication, where we ensure the inclusion of children from different ethnic backgrounds, promoting tolerance among customers and employees, and influencing the shaping of social values.
Additionally, SMYK employs people of various nationalities at all professional levels, including managerial, specialist, and director positions. Our teams consist of people of different ages, which we see as a value and an enriching element of our workplace. Generational diversity makes our teams both flexible, with a fresh perspective, and knowledgeable, with extensive experience. Furthermore, SMYK considers diversity not only among employees but also among customers, introducing solutions that make shopping easier for people with special needs. An example is "Quiet Hours," which allow children and adults on the autism spectrum to shop in a more accommodating environment.
Equity is closely related to diversity and inclusion but focuses mainly on ensuring that all employees have access to the same opportunities and support. It does not mean treating everyone identically but rather adjusting support and resources to individual needs so that everyone has an equal chance to succeed in their own way. We understand how challenging it can be to balance social roles such as parenting or caring for the elderly, which is why SMYK offers solutions that help balance private and professional life, such as flexible working hours, remote work opportunities, and part-time work.
Inclusion is about creating a work environment where all employees feel accepted, respected, and actively engaged in company activities, regardless of their individual characteristics. At SMYK, this value is reflected in employee initiatives such as themed competitions for children or actions like "Office in Stores." Our recent children's competition, "Diversity is OK – Every Child is Unique," was not only open to the children of all employees but also promoted the values outlined in the Diversity Charter.
