How feedback can evolve into an assignment
Back on July 15, 2015, when I submitted my feedback to the BLEND Global Resource Group – the LGBT (Lesbian Gay Bisexual Transgender) network at Bayer that I had come across by chance on the intranet – I had absolutely no idea what the outcome would be. Less than two years later, there I was, on May 27, 2017, with numerous other colleagues manning the booth operated by Bayer / BLEND at the 8th Sticks & Stones LGBT Careers Event in Berlin and answering questions asked by potential job applicants.
Students looking for internships, young graduates looking to kick-start their careers or go on to complete their Bachelor’s or Master’s degree, seasoned professionals looking for a new start or a change. Men and women alike. Pharmaceuticals, biology, physics, chemistry, IT, medicine, business consulting – you name it, it was there. We often had to speak English and our opposite frequently responded with an Asian or Eastern European accent. Some just wanted to find out about Bayer’s BLEND network or about our personal views on work and everything associated with it, such as the work-life balance, preventive healthcare, reducing workloads as we get older, or the general working conditions. If I was unable to help a visitor at any point, I could always refer them to one of my colleagues.
Our motto is “Bayer: Respecting Your Right to be You.”
On that day, I think we all did a good job together, presenting Bayer / BLEND in a sunny rainbow-colored light (although that might have been due to the weather and the large windows) as an employer for whom “Diversity & Inclusion” is not just an empty phrase. Bayer is on the right track and we at BLEND are proud to be part of this development. Together, we can create a work environment that encourages EVERY INDIVIDUAL to tap their full potential. Anyone who would like to become part of this great global BLEND community is more than welcome to join us. For me personally, it has opened up a whole new perspective.
My name is Brigitte Munsch and I have been working at Bayer Animal Health in Monheim for 29 years as a Chemical Laboratory Technician. As a straight ally (someone who is not LGBT themselves but promotes equality for LGBT individuals), I am actively involved in our BLEND community and act as a point of contact in Monheim, for example.
This post is also available in: German
