Kolkata-born Mohammed Ali Yasser, never found a safe workspace to embrace his true self, until he joined Salesforce in 2020. He identifies as a gay cisgender man, and currently heads the company’s online learning platform, Trailhead, as a senior editor. 

“During my decade-long career, Salesforce stands out as the only company where I could come out with ease. Pursuing a career with a company that actively advocates for LGBTQ+ rights has been a goal and I am genuinely pleased and thankful to have discovered such an inclusive environment here,” Yasser told AIM. 

“Everyone Deserves an Inclusive Workspace”

During his time at Salesforce, Yasser has actively participated in the company’s employee resource group, Outforce, which organises events promoting awareness about the LGBTQ+ community and their rights. The group contributes to the visibility and acceptance of queer individuals in the tech industry by fostering a safe space. 

The positive feedback from Outforce events indicates their impact on sensitising employees and creating awareness.

According to a recent report on LGBTQ+ inclusivity, 42% have encountered non-inclusive behaviours in the workplace, with a significant number attributing it to their sexual orientation or gender identity. 

However, even though Yasser finally found a comfortable space to come out, it is not the same for all. Most queer employees feel that it is important to be open about one’s identity at work, yet it scarcely happens that the company provides an inclusive space for that.

Furthermore, the findings reveal that less than half of the respondents are at ease with the idea of being open about their identity with everyone at work, while approximately one-third state that they only feel comfortable doing so with select colleagues. 

So for those struggling with coming out in the tech industry, it is important to find allies.

“It is okay if you’re not comfortable coming out at work. But if you come across an ally or an LGBTQ+ colleague, consider discussing the option of talking to HR or a senior leader for a more inclusive workplace. But in the end, be compassionate towards yourself and remember that you’re not alone,” suggested Yasser. 

How is Salesforce Making this Happen?

Salesforce prioritises equality and inclusion at the workplace, aiming to create a diverse environment where all employees, no matter what their sexual orientations and gender identities are, feel supported. 

Besides Outforce empowering the LGBTQ+ community, the company has also introduced a gender affirmation reimbursement benefit, providing financial support for medical procedures. This comprehensive suite of benefits includes coverage for surgeries, prescription drugs, hormonal therapy, hair-related procedures, and more. 

The support spans six key areas: medical and legal reimbursements, recovery leave, counselling services, Warmline support, and wardrobe reimbursement. Salesforce also offers counselling services to assist transgender and non-binary employees and their loved ones throughout their journey. 

AI Can Make it Better

Despite advancements post the decriminalisation of homosexuality in 2018, there’s a call for more inclusive workplace policies. However, now with AI, fostering inclusivity is easier. 

“AI is a powerful tool to eliminate human bias, particularly in hiring, promotion, and talent development, making space for a more inclusive approach and data-driven decision-making,” said Yasser. 

Moreover, AI extends its influence to diversity and inclusion initiatives within companies. By scrutinising employee feedback and sentiments, it tailors initiatives for sensitisation and inclusion. It is also used to create inclusive communication and educational materials that accurately represent diverse gender identities and sexual orientations.

Yasser emphasised the importance of diverse data in training AI models to accurately reflect and understand the nuances of the employee experience. In essence, the combination of inclusivity efforts and AI holds the potential to reshape the landscape of the tech industry, fostering a more accepting and diverse environment for all.

Read more: The Struggles and Triumphs of Trans Inclusion in Indian Tech