Chapter 3: Our people and our value chain
We respect each other
The Nestlé way
Respect has a special and powerful meaning at Nestlé. It profoundly influences the way we work and run our business. We celebrate the diversity of cultures and ways of thinking within Nestlé, which help us unlock the full potential of our people and our business. Our inclusive workplace is one in which everyone can thrive in a collaborative and respectful environment, feeling valued and safe. We promote the inclusion of all communities, cultures and ages in our workforce, continually working to enhance gender balance and provide equal opportunities. We have zero tolerance for any form of violence, harassment or discrimination.
How we live it, every day
- Treat everyone with respect and dignity. Embrace diverse viewpoints.
- Be mindful of how your words and behavior may impact others, both in the workplace and outside. Even inadvertently, some actions, remarks and types of humor can be disrespectful.
- Never engage in or tolerate discriminatory behavior or harassment. Intervene with respect and offer support, or seek guidance from your people manager or HR Business Partner, or report it through Speak Up.
We celebrate the diversity of cultures and ways of thinking within Nestlé.
Putting our Code to the test
Q. Several colleagues have been making unpleasant comments about a new recruit to our team, joking about their accent and excluding them from team meetings. When I called the behavior out, they said it was a joke and I should “lighten up”. What should I do?
A. Jokes at someone else’s expense may be disrespectful and belittling. Excluding someone in that way could also be seen as harassment. Talk to your manager or HR Business Partner, or use Speak Up. Encourage others who share your concerns to speak up as well.
See something? Say something
Violence and harassment in the workplace may take many forms, some of which include:
- Derogatory comments
- Verbal or physical threats
- Offensive or demeaning jokes
- Physical assault or interference
- Unwanted touching
- Sexual comments or behaviors
- Bullying
Discrimination on the basis of any protected characteristic is prohibited, including:
- Nationality
- Religion
- Race
- Gender
- Age
- Disability
- Sexual orientation