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Creating an Employment Brand 
for the LGBT Community 
Group 1 
HRM 520 
New England College of Business and Finance
Table of Contents 
 Overview………………………..…………..………….…Slide 3 
 Strategic Alignment……………....……….………..…….Slide 4 
• Summary of Goals…………………………….………………...Slide 5 
• Rationale………………………………………………….……..Slide 6 
• Alignment of Goals and Business Objectives……………..….....Slide 7 
 Situational Analysis…………………………..…….….….Slide 8 
 S.W.O.T. Matrix…………………………..……………….Slide 9 
 S.W.O.T. Analysis 
• Strengths………………………………………………..………Slide 10 
• Weaknesses………………………………………….………….Slide 11 
• Opportunities…………………………………………….….Slide 12-13 
• Threats……………………………………………………….....Slide 14 
 Perceptual Map………………………………..….……....Slide 15 
 Perceptual Map Analysis…………….………..……...…..Slide 16 
 Vision and Purpose……………………….…….....……...Slide 17 
 Brand Idea……………………………..………………Slide 18-19 
 Overall Goal………………………………………….......Slide 20 
 Values………………………………………………….…Slide 21 
 Brand Strategy Road Map……..…..…………….……….Slide 22 
 Strategic Focus: Consumer/Target Audience………..…...Slide 23 
 Strategic Focus: Competitive…………………………….Slide 24 
 Strategic Focus: Operational……………………………..Slide 25 
 Key Performance Indicators……………………………...Slide 26 
 Tactics Sequencing: Short Term………………………….Slide 27 
 Tactics Sequencing: Long Term………………………….Slide 28 
 Long Term Strategy: Evolving Perceptions………………Slide 29 
 Long Term Strategy: Monitor Domestic Response……….Slide 30 
 Long Term Strategy: Monitor Global Response………….Slide 31 
 Where are we?....................................................................Slide 32 
 Summary…………………………………………….……Slide 33 
 References…………………………………….…..…..Slide 34-38
Overview 
The purpose of this presentation is propose a brand 
recruitment and retention strategy for LBGT employees. 
 Strengthen organizational diversity 
 Elevate stakeholder perception 
 Integrate progressivism into the purpose and business 
strategy of Walmart’s trademark “Save money. Live 
better.” 
 Ensure consistency and stability of the brand
Strategic Alignment 
Summary of goals 
Rationale 
Alignment of goals and business 
objective
Strategic Alignment: Summary of 
Goals 
Walmart is striving to have an all-encompassing 
work environment 
Ensure every individual is treated equally 
Take advantage of increased talent pool 
Avoid potentially damaging press/lawsuits 
Walmart has formed PRIDE to ensure 
inclusive work environment
Strategic Alignment: Rationale 
Walmart is striving to have an all-encompassing 
work environment 
Ensure every individual is treated equally 
Take advantage of increased talent pool 
Avoid potentially damaging press/lawsuits 
Walmart has formed PRIDE to ensure 
inclusive work environment
Strategic Alignment: Alignment of 
Goals and Business Objectives 
Treating all individuals equally 
• “Respect the individual” 
 Talent diversity 
Avoid damaging press/lawsuits 
• PRIDE
Situational Analysis 
Analysis of Walmart in the LGBT community 
Evaluation of current positioning in attracting 
this talent 
Discussion of the challenges facing Walmart 
in creating an LGBT friendly branding 
strategy tailored to the LGBT community
S.W.O.T.
S.W.O.T. Analysis 
Strengths 
Promotes equality 
Supports non-discriminatory mindset 
Promotes family values 
Increase competitiveness 
Increased candidate/talent pool 
Adaptability/Flexibility
S.W.O.T. Analysis 
Weaknesses 
Former CEO Mike Duke supported bill in Arkansas 
that would deny gay couples rights to adopt 
May not seem genuine having a new focus on LGBT 
Having such a strong conservative customer base that 
they could have repercussions 
Lawsuits 
Increased cost of marketing and benefits 
Current employees may quit, leaving gaps in 
employment
S.W.O.T. Analysis 
Opportunities 
6.8% of Americans are part of the LGBT 
community 
8.3% gay and lesbians are “out of the closet” 
646,464 same sex couples live in the U.S. 
$790 billion is the estimated buying power in the 
LGBT population as of 2012
S.W.O.T. Analysis 
Opportunities 
58% of LGBT report being more likely to buy 
from companies that market to LGBT 
communities 
33% reported boycotting a company because of 
supported LGBT causes 
Average yearly spending on consumer packaged 
goods is 25% higher for same-sex households
S.W.O.T. Analysis 
Threats 
Competitors offer greater support for the 
LGBT community 
Loss of suppliers 
Global view on LGBT 
Loss of talent 
Local community backlash/loss of 
customer base 
Political fallout
Perceptual Map
Perceptual Map Analysis 
Walmart 
• More liberal 
• Focus on saving money 
Target 
• Higher costs 
• Liberal 
Kmart 
• Higher costs 
• Supports LGBT 
Chick-fil-a 
• Lower costs 
• Extremely conservative 
 Best Buy 
• More conservative 
• Higher costs 
CostCo 
• Conservative 
• Low prices 
 Aldi 
• Lowest prices 
• Liberal
Vision and Purpose 
We want to create an employment brand that not 
only supports the LGBT community, but 
celebrates it 
We promote equality, family values, and diversity 
We want to make the lives of ALL our customers 
easier and more affordable so they can live life to 
the fullest 
“If we work together, we’ll lower the cost of 
living for everyone…we’ll give the world an 
opportunity to see what it’s like to save and 
have a better life” – Sam Walton
Brand Idea 
Where are we? 
90% scoring on the Corporate Equality Index 
LGBT community relationship is improving but still not 
great 
Why are we here? 
 Extending our health benefits to include same-sex 
domestic partners increased our rating from 80% last 
year. 
 Prior CEO supported bill to ban adoption by gay couples 
hurting relationship with LGBT community 
Where could we be? 
 Best Places to Work for LGBT Equality by scoring 100% 
on the Corporate Equality Index
Brand Idea 
How can we get there? 
By offering transgender-inclusive health 
benefits we can increase our score on the 
Corporate Equality Index to 100%. Currently 
only 53% of companies offer this benefit. 
What do we need to do to get ready? 
Diversity and inclusion training 
Providing zero tolerance for discrimination 
Extending health benefits to all full time 
employee regardless of relationship status, 
sexuality, or gender
Overall Goal 
Attract and retain critical LGBT talent 
What exactly do we want to achieve that 
we can measure? 
What things do we want to achieve with 
this new employment brand niche?
Values 
Encourage diversity/Cultural awareness 
Leadership advocates of diversity 
Ensure all employees feel valued, honored, 
and respected 
Create relationships to strengthen mutual 
interests and values
Strategic focus: Consumer/Target-audience 
Tactics 
• Treat Customers and Employees Equally 
• PRIDE partnering with GLAAD 
• Make contributions to charitable organizations to focus 
of LGBT issues 
Communication 
• Memos, email, press releases 
Social Media and Advertising 
• Facebook, Twitter, television
Strategic Focus: Competitive 
Tactics 
• Include local suppliers/vendors that are owned and 
operated by LGBT community 
• Promotions of LGBT employees are highlighted 
• Start an outreach program through education 
Communication 
• Company meeting, company-wide memos 
Social Media and Advertising 
• Facebook, Digital Media, Face to Face Seminars
Strategic Focus: Operational 
Tactics 
• By subscribing to Out and Equal Career Link we can 
post open positions to attract LGBT talent 
• Attend the Out and Equal Workplace Summit 2015 to 
gain insight on best practices to create LGBT 
workplace equality. 
Communication 
• Company meeting, company-wide memos 
• Quarterly newsletters featuring a “Who we are” section 
• Video summary of the conference available 
Social Media and Advertising 
• Internet job site, Facebook, Digital Media, Face to 
Face Seminars
Key Performance Indicators 
Measure referrals through the Out and Equal 
career link 
• recruitment success measurement 
Monitor and measure participation in 
Walmart’s internal employee group, PRIDE 
• recruitment success and employee 
retention/engagement 
Monitor equal opportunity cases to ensure 
decrease 
• recruitment success and employee 
retention/engagement
Tactics Sequencing: Short Term (0-12mo) 
Outreach program development 
Subscription to Career Link 
• Listing of current open positions on the 
Out and Equal website 
Treat customers and employees equally
Tactics Sequencing: Long Term (12mo+) 
Local suppliers and vendors 
Thoughtful promotions 
Outreach program development
Long Term Strategy: Evolving Perceptions 
Customers, community, potential employees 
• Sales and community involvement, employee referrals, 
local recognition (ex. Chamber of Commerce) 
Employees 
• Continued employment, organizational loyalty, employee 
referrals, advancement 
Vendors 
• Monitor increase of LGBT owned/operated vendors, 
monitor existing partnerships for feedback, changes in 
service, etc. 
Shareholders 
• Monitor shareholder feedback
Long Term Strategy: Monitor Domestic 
Response 
Monitor cultural perceptions from 
various regions of the United States 
Monitor social media feedback 
Monitor changing laws
Long Term Strategy: Monitor Global 
Response 
Monitor cultural needs 
Monitor changing laws
Where are we?
Summary 
Strategic alignment 
Situational analysis 
SWOT analysis 
Perceptual Mapping 
Brand idea/Brand strategy road map 
Strategic focus
References 
Act One Flyer. Retrieved from 
http://adoptionact.familycouncilactioncommittee.com/adoptionflyer.pdf 
Bhasin, K. (2014). Target finally comes out in support of gay marriage. Retrieved from 
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2014/08/06/target-gay-marriage-stance-_n_5654924.html 
Chick-fil-a passes muster with gay rights group. (2013, Jan 28). The Ledger. Retrieved from 
http://search.proquest.com/docview/1367540813?accountid=33575 
China: Gay Rights Activist Held in China.(2013, May 27). Asia News Monitor, Retrieved from 
http://search.proquest.com/docview/1354874823?accountid=33575 
Companies, LGBT Employees Still Face Challenges to Inclusive Workplaces. (2013). HR 
Focus, 90(7), 8-10. 
Corporate Equality Index 2015. (2014) Human Rights Campaign Foundation, 1-108. Retrieved 
from http://hrc-assets.s3-website-us-east-1.amazonaws.com//files/assets/resources/CEI- 
2015.pdf#__utma=149406063.1168982250.1415932173.1417297409.1417312794.4&__utmb=149406 
063.1.10.1417312794&__utmc=149406063&__utmx=- 
&__utmz=149406063.1417312794.4.4.utmcsr=google|utmccn=(organic)|utmcmd=organic|utmctr=(not 
%20provided)&__utmv=-&__utmk=205371664
References 
Cox, D. (2014, August 8). Target’s support for same-sex marriage mirrors customers’ views. Public Religion Research Institute. 
Retrieved from http://publicreligion.org/2014/08/targets-support-for-same-sex-marriage-mirrors-customers-views/ (Links to an 
external site.) 
Credit Donkey. (2013). The rise of the LGBT consumer. Retrieved from http://visual.ly/lgbt-consumer-statistics 
Diversity and Inclusion Report, 2014. www.walmart.com. Retrieved from: 
http://cdn.corporate.walmart.com/04/50/c9c4367040029f6b2a4aca089d2c/diversity-inclusion.pdf 
Eckholm, Eric. (2014, September 4.) Gay-Marriage Bans Fall in Wisconsin and Indiana. NY Times.com. Retrieved from: 
http://www.nytimes.com/2014/09/05/us/us-appellate-court-overturns-same-sex-marriage-bans-in-wisconsin-and-indiana.html?_r=0 
EEOC Website. (2014.) Processing Complaints of Discrimination by Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender (LGBT) Federal 
Employees. Retrieved from: http://www.eeoc.gov/federal/directives/lgbt_complaint_processing.cfm 
Engle, P. (2014). The Incredible Shrinking Workforce. Industrial Engineer, 46 (7), 22. Retrieved from 
http://searchproquest.com/docview/1546476665?accountid=33375 
Fang, E. (2011). Consumer inspired: Consumer strategy lessons that inspire the way method envisions the future. Brand Packaging, 
15(7), 40. Retrieved from 
http://go.galegroup.com/ps/i.do?id=GALE%7CA268404128&v=2.1&u=mlin_b_necbusin&it=r&p=ITOF&sw=w&asid=7d5e08a8 
9e310b254bafc3cab81ddff1 
Farfan, B. (n.d.). Company mission statements: Complete list of world's largest retail missions. Retrieved from 
http://retailindustry.about.com/od/retailbestpractices/ig/Company-Mission-Statements/Wal-Mart-Mission-Statement.htm 
Ferber, Lisa. (2014, February 24.) Big Firms lead way on LGBT benefits; Inclusive Business Models Help Local Companies 
Attract Valued Talent. Crain’s New York Business. Retrieved from: 
Fishman, Charles. (2006, January 1.) The Man Who Said No to Wal-Mart. www.fastcompany.com Retrieved from: 
http://www.fastcompany.com/54763/man-who-said-no-wal-mart
References 
Fortune.com/fortune500/wal-mart-stores-inc-1/ 
Francisco, C. (2013, November 7). Wal-Mart responds after gay couple told to leave. News Channel 4 KFOR. 
Retrieved fromhttp://kfor.com/2013/11/07/wal-mart-responds-after-gay-couple-told-to-leave/ (Links to an 
external site.) 
Froelich, J. (2012, December 12). Gay Walmart group PRIDE comes out. Arkansas Times. Retrieved 
from http://www.arktimes.com/arkansas/gay-walmart-group-pride-comes-out/ 
Content?oid=2568636&showFullText=true 
Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, Transgender Associates. (2011 February 11.) Retrieved from: 
http://newyork.walmartcommunity.com/gay-lesbian-bisexual-transgender-associates. 
Giammon, Craig. (2014, November 19.) Wal-Mart Improves Treatment of LGBT Employees, Report Finds. 
www.businessweek.com. Retrieved from: http://www.businessweek.com/news/2014-11-19/wal-mart-makes-strides- 
in-treatment-of-gay-workers-report-finds. 
Gonzalez, A. (2014). Costco CEO: Controversy about conservative book overblown. Retrieved from 
http://seattletimes.com/html/businesstechnology/2024031339_costcodsouzaxml.html 
Greenberg, J. (2004). Diversity in the workplace: Benefits, challenges and solutions. The Multicultural 
Advantage. Retrieved from www.multiculturaladvantage.com/recruit/diversity/diversity-in-the-workplace-benefits- 
challenges-solutions.asp 
Halkos, G. & Bousinakis, D. (2010). The effect of stress and satisfaction on productivity. International Journal 
of Productivity and Performance Management, 59(5), 415-431.
References 
Halzack, S. (2014, October 7). Wal-Mart to end health insurance coverage for some part-time workers. The Washington 
Post. Retrieved from http://www.washingtonpost.com/news/get-there/wp/2014/10/07/wal-mart-to-end-health-insurance-coverage- 
for-some-part-time-workers/ (Links to an external site.) 
Kerby, S. & Burns, C. (2012). The top 10 economic facts of diversity in the workplace: A diverse workforce is integral 
to a strong economy. Center for American Progress. Retrieved from 
https://www.americanprogress.org/issues/labor/news/2012/07/12/11900/the-top-10-economic-facts-of-diversity-in-the-workplace/ 
Khimm, S. (2010). Target and Best Buy money flows to dems after citizen united backlash. Retrieved from 
http://www.motherjones.com/mojo/2010/08/citizens-united-target-best-buy-minnesota-democrats 
Lindstrom, M. (2007, April 20). Evolving consumer perceptions will affect trust. Media: Asia's Media 
& Marketing Newspaper. p. 22. 
My Local Supplier. (2014). Costa Mesa: Experian Information Solutions, Inc. Retrieved from 
http://search.proquest.com/docview/1608015153?accountid=33575 
Neff, J. (2008, June 18). Kmart CMO quitting, will fight for gay marriage. Advertising Age. Retrieved 
from http://adage.com/article/news/kmart-cmo-quitting-fight-gay-marriage-127814/ 
Opportunity facts. (2014, August). Retrieved from http://news.walmart.com/walmart-facts/economis-opportunity- 
fact-sheet 
Peterson, H. (2014. March 26). This rapidly expanding grocery chain is shockingly cheaper than Walmart. Business 
Insider. Retrieved from http://www.businessinsider.com/this-grocery-store-has-the-lowest-prices-2014-3 
PR, N. (2013, October 23). Out & Equal Workplace Summit Celebrates 15th Anniversary. PR Newswire US
References 
Robertson, G. (2013, April 14). How to create a brand strategy road map. Beloved Brands. Retrieved 
from http://beloved-brands.com/2013/04/14/road-map/ 
Ulrich, D., Younger, J., Brockbank, W., & Ulrich, M. (2012). HR from the outside in: Six competencies 
for the future of human resources. New York: McGraw-Hill. 
Um, N. (2014). Does gay-themed advertising haunt your brand?. International Journal Of 
Advertising, 33(4), 811-832. doi:10.2501/IJA-33-4-811-832 
Wal-Mart to offer health benefits to same-sex partners of employees.(2013, Aug 28). Portland Press 
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HRM 520 Group 1 Project

  • 1. Creating an Employment Brand for the LGBT Community Group 1 HRM 520 New England College of Business and Finance
  • 2. Table of Contents  Overview………………………..…………..………….…Slide 3  Strategic Alignment……………....……….………..…….Slide 4 • Summary of Goals…………………………….………………...Slide 5 • Rationale………………………………………………….……..Slide 6 • Alignment of Goals and Business Objectives……………..….....Slide 7  Situational Analysis…………………………..…….….….Slide 8  S.W.O.T. Matrix…………………………..……………….Slide 9  S.W.O.T. Analysis • Strengths………………………………………………..………Slide 10 • Weaknesses………………………………………….………….Slide 11 • Opportunities…………………………………………….….Slide 12-13 • Threats……………………………………………………….....Slide 14  Perceptual Map………………………………..….……....Slide 15  Perceptual Map Analysis…………….………..……...…..Slide 16  Vision and Purpose……………………….…….....……...Slide 17  Brand Idea……………………………..………………Slide 18-19  Overall Goal………………………………………….......Slide 20  Values………………………………………………….…Slide 21  Brand Strategy Road Map……..…..…………….……….Slide 22  Strategic Focus: Consumer/Target Audience………..…...Slide 23  Strategic Focus: Competitive…………………………….Slide 24  Strategic Focus: Operational……………………………..Slide 25  Key Performance Indicators……………………………...Slide 26  Tactics Sequencing: Short Term………………………….Slide 27  Tactics Sequencing: Long Term………………………….Slide 28  Long Term Strategy: Evolving Perceptions………………Slide 29  Long Term Strategy: Monitor Domestic Response……….Slide 30  Long Term Strategy: Monitor Global Response………….Slide 31  Where are we?....................................................................Slide 32  Summary…………………………………………….……Slide 33  References…………………………………….…..…..Slide 34-38
  • 3. Overview The purpose of this presentation is propose a brand recruitment and retention strategy for LBGT employees.  Strengthen organizational diversity  Elevate stakeholder perception  Integrate progressivism into the purpose and business strategy of Walmart’s trademark “Save money. Live better.”  Ensure consistency and stability of the brand
  • 4. Strategic Alignment Summary of goals Rationale Alignment of goals and business objective
  • 5. Strategic Alignment: Summary of Goals Walmart is striving to have an all-encompassing work environment Ensure every individual is treated equally Take advantage of increased talent pool Avoid potentially damaging press/lawsuits Walmart has formed PRIDE to ensure inclusive work environment
  • 6. Strategic Alignment: Rationale Walmart is striving to have an all-encompassing work environment Ensure every individual is treated equally Take advantage of increased talent pool Avoid potentially damaging press/lawsuits Walmart has formed PRIDE to ensure inclusive work environment
  • 7. Strategic Alignment: Alignment of Goals and Business Objectives Treating all individuals equally • “Respect the individual”  Talent diversity Avoid damaging press/lawsuits • PRIDE
  • 8. Situational Analysis Analysis of Walmart in the LGBT community Evaluation of current positioning in attracting this talent Discussion of the challenges facing Walmart in creating an LGBT friendly branding strategy tailored to the LGBT community
  • 10. S.W.O.T. Analysis Strengths Promotes equality Supports non-discriminatory mindset Promotes family values Increase competitiveness Increased candidate/talent pool Adaptability/Flexibility
  • 11. S.W.O.T. Analysis Weaknesses Former CEO Mike Duke supported bill in Arkansas that would deny gay couples rights to adopt May not seem genuine having a new focus on LGBT Having such a strong conservative customer base that they could have repercussions Lawsuits Increased cost of marketing and benefits Current employees may quit, leaving gaps in employment
  • 12. S.W.O.T. Analysis Opportunities 6.8% of Americans are part of the LGBT community 8.3% gay and lesbians are “out of the closet” 646,464 same sex couples live in the U.S. $790 billion is the estimated buying power in the LGBT population as of 2012
  • 13. S.W.O.T. Analysis Opportunities 58% of LGBT report being more likely to buy from companies that market to LGBT communities 33% reported boycotting a company because of supported LGBT causes Average yearly spending on consumer packaged goods is 25% higher for same-sex households
  • 14. S.W.O.T. Analysis Threats Competitors offer greater support for the LGBT community Loss of suppliers Global view on LGBT Loss of talent Local community backlash/loss of customer base Political fallout
  • 16. Perceptual Map Analysis Walmart • More liberal • Focus on saving money Target • Higher costs • Liberal Kmart • Higher costs • Supports LGBT Chick-fil-a • Lower costs • Extremely conservative  Best Buy • More conservative • Higher costs CostCo • Conservative • Low prices  Aldi • Lowest prices • Liberal
  • 17. Vision and Purpose We want to create an employment brand that not only supports the LGBT community, but celebrates it We promote equality, family values, and diversity We want to make the lives of ALL our customers easier and more affordable so they can live life to the fullest “If we work together, we’ll lower the cost of living for everyone…we’ll give the world an opportunity to see what it’s like to save and have a better life” – Sam Walton
  • 18. Brand Idea Where are we? 90% scoring on the Corporate Equality Index LGBT community relationship is improving but still not great Why are we here?  Extending our health benefits to include same-sex domestic partners increased our rating from 80% last year.  Prior CEO supported bill to ban adoption by gay couples hurting relationship with LGBT community Where could we be?  Best Places to Work for LGBT Equality by scoring 100% on the Corporate Equality Index
  • 19. Brand Idea How can we get there? By offering transgender-inclusive health benefits we can increase our score on the Corporate Equality Index to 100%. Currently only 53% of companies offer this benefit. What do we need to do to get ready? Diversity and inclusion training Providing zero tolerance for discrimination Extending health benefits to all full time employee regardless of relationship status, sexuality, or gender
  • 20. Overall Goal Attract and retain critical LGBT talent What exactly do we want to achieve that we can measure? What things do we want to achieve with this new employment brand niche?
  • 21. Values Encourage diversity/Cultural awareness Leadership advocates of diversity Ensure all employees feel valued, honored, and respected Create relationships to strengthen mutual interests and values
  • 22.
  • 23. Strategic focus: Consumer/Target-audience Tactics • Treat Customers and Employees Equally • PRIDE partnering with GLAAD • Make contributions to charitable organizations to focus of LGBT issues Communication • Memos, email, press releases Social Media and Advertising • Facebook, Twitter, television
  • 24. Strategic Focus: Competitive Tactics • Include local suppliers/vendors that are owned and operated by LGBT community • Promotions of LGBT employees are highlighted • Start an outreach program through education Communication • Company meeting, company-wide memos Social Media and Advertising • Facebook, Digital Media, Face to Face Seminars
  • 25. Strategic Focus: Operational Tactics • By subscribing to Out and Equal Career Link we can post open positions to attract LGBT talent • Attend the Out and Equal Workplace Summit 2015 to gain insight on best practices to create LGBT workplace equality. Communication • Company meeting, company-wide memos • Quarterly newsletters featuring a “Who we are” section • Video summary of the conference available Social Media and Advertising • Internet job site, Facebook, Digital Media, Face to Face Seminars
  • 26. Key Performance Indicators Measure referrals through the Out and Equal career link • recruitment success measurement Monitor and measure participation in Walmart’s internal employee group, PRIDE • recruitment success and employee retention/engagement Monitor equal opportunity cases to ensure decrease • recruitment success and employee retention/engagement
  • 27. Tactics Sequencing: Short Term (0-12mo) Outreach program development Subscription to Career Link • Listing of current open positions on the Out and Equal website Treat customers and employees equally
  • 28. Tactics Sequencing: Long Term (12mo+) Local suppliers and vendors Thoughtful promotions Outreach program development
  • 29. Long Term Strategy: Evolving Perceptions Customers, community, potential employees • Sales and community involvement, employee referrals, local recognition (ex. Chamber of Commerce) Employees • Continued employment, organizational loyalty, employee referrals, advancement Vendors • Monitor increase of LGBT owned/operated vendors, monitor existing partnerships for feedback, changes in service, etc. Shareholders • Monitor shareholder feedback
  • 30. Long Term Strategy: Monitor Domestic Response Monitor cultural perceptions from various regions of the United States Monitor social media feedback Monitor changing laws
  • 31. Long Term Strategy: Monitor Global Response Monitor cultural needs Monitor changing laws
  • 33. Summary Strategic alignment Situational analysis SWOT analysis Perceptual Mapping Brand idea/Brand strategy road map Strategic focus
  • 34. References Act One Flyer. Retrieved from http://adoptionact.familycouncilactioncommittee.com/adoptionflyer.pdf Bhasin, K. (2014). Target finally comes out in support of gay marriage. Retrieved from http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2014/08/06/target-gay-marriage-stance-_n_5654924.html Chick-fil-a passes muster with gay rights group. (2013, Jan 28). The Ledger. Retrieved from http://search.proquest.com/docview/1367540813?accountid=33575 China: Gay Rights Activist Held in China.(2013, May 27). Asia News Monitor, Retrieved from http://search.proquest.com/docview/1354874823?accountid=33575 Companies, LGBT Employees Still Face Challenges to Inclusive Workplaces. (2013). HR Focus, 90(7), 8-10. Corporate Equality Index 2015. (2014) Human Rights Campaign Foundation, 1-108. Retrieved from http://hrc-assets.s3-website-us-east-1.amazonaws.com//files/assets/resources/CEI- 2015.pdf#__utma=149406063.1168982250.1415932173.1417297409.1417312794.4&__utmb=149406 063.1.10.1417312794&__utmc=149406063&__utmx=- &__utmz=149406063.1417312794.4.4.utmcsr=google|utmccn=(organic)|utmcmd=organic|utmctr=(not %20provided)&__utmv=-&__utmk=205371664
  • 35. References Cox, D. (2014, August 8). Target’s support for same-sex marriage mirrors customers’ views. Public Religion Research Institute. Retrieved from http://publicreligion.org/2014/08/targets-support-for-same-sex-marriage-mirrors-customers-views/ (Links to an external site.) Credit Donkey. (2013). The rise of the LGBT consumer. Retrieved from http://visual.ly/lgbt-consumer-statistics Diversity and Inclusion Report, 2014. www.walmart.com. Retrieved from: http://cdn.corporate.walmart.com/04/50/c9c4367040029f6b2a4aca089d2c/diversity-inclusion.pdf Eckholm, Eric. (2014, September 4.) Gay-Marriage Bans Fall in Wisconsin and Indiana. NY Times.com. Retrieved from: http://www.nytimes.com/2014/09/05/us/us-appellate-court-overturns-same-sex-marriage-bans-in-wisconsin-and-indiana.html?_r=0 EEOC Website. (2014.) Processing Complaints of Discrimination by Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender (LGBT) Federal Employees. Retrieved from: http://www.eeoc.gov/federal/directives/lgbt_complaint_processing.cfm Engle, P. (2014). The Incredible Shrinking Workforce. Industrial Engineer, 46 (7), 22. Retrieved from http://searchproquest.com/docview/1546476665?accountid=33375 Fang, E. (2011). Consumer inspired: Consumer strategy lessons that inspire the way method envisions the future. Brand Packaging, 15(7), 40. Retrieved from http://go.galegroup.com/ps/i.do?id=GALE%7CA268404128&v=2.1&u=mlin_b_necbusin&it=r&p=ITOF&sw=w&asid=7d5e08a8 9e310b254bafc3cab81ddff1 Farfan, B. (n.d.). Company mission statements: Complete list of world's largest retail missions. Retrieved from http://retailindustry.about.com/od/retailbestpractices/ig/Company-Mission-Statements/Wal-Mart-Mission-Statement.htm Ferber, Lisa. (2014, February 24.) Big Firms lead way on LGBT benefits; Inclusive Business Models Help Local Companies Attract Valued Talent. Crain’s New York Business. Retrieved from: Fishman, Charles. (2006, January 1.) The Man Who Said No to Wal-Mart. www.fastcompany.com Retrieved from: http://www.fastcompany.com/54763/man-who-said-no-wal-mart
  • 36. References Fortune.com/fortune500/wal-mart-stores-inc-1/ Francisco, C. (2013, November 7). Wal-Mart responds after gay couple told to leave. News Channel 4 KFOR. Retrieved fromhttp://kfor.com/2013/11/07/wal-mart-responds-after-gay-couple-told-to-leave/ (Links to an external site.) Froelich, J. (2012, December 12). Gay Walmart group PRIDE comes out. Arkansas Times. Retrieved from http://www.arktimes.com/arkansas/gay-walmart-group-pride-comes-out/ Content?oid=2568636&showFullText=true Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, Transgender Associates. (2011 February 11.) Retrieved from: http://newyork.walmartcommunity.com/gay-lesbian-bisexual-transgender-associates. Giammon, Craig. (2014, November 19.) Wal-Mart Improves Treatment of LGBT Employees, Report Finds. www.businessweek.com. Retrieved from: http://www.businessweek.com/news/2014-11-19/wal-mart-makes-strides- in-treatment-of-gay-workers-report-finds. Gonzalez, A. (2014). Costco CEO: Controversy about conservative book overblown. Retrieved from http://seattletimes.com/html/businesstechnology/2024031339_costcodsouzaxml.html Greenberg, J. (2004). Diversity in the workplace: Benefits, challenges and solutions. The Multicultural Advantage. Retrieved from www.multiculturaladvantage.com/recruit/diversity/diversity-in-the-workplace-benefits- challenges-solutions.asp Halkos, G. & Bousinakis, D. (2010). The effect of stress and satisfaction on productivity. International Journal of Productivity and Performance Management, 59(5), 415-431.
  • 37. References Halzack, S. (2014, October 7). Wal-Mart to end health insurance coverage for some part-time workers. The Washington Post. Retrieved from http://www.washingtonpost.com/news/get-there/wp/2014/10/07/wal-mart-to-end-health-insurance-coverage- for-some-part-time-workers/ (Links to an external site.) Kerby, S. & Burns, C. (2012). The top 10 economic facts of diversity in the workplace: A diverse workforce is integral to a strong economy. Center for American Progress. Retrieved from https://www.americanprogress.org/issues/labor/news/2012/07/12/11900/the-top-10-economic-facts-of-diversity-in-the-workplace/ Khimm, S. (2010). Target and Best Buy money flows to dems after citizen united backlash. Retrieved from http://www.motherjones.com/mojo/2010/08/citizens-united-target-best-buy-minnesota-democrats Lindstrom, M. (2007, April 20). Evolving consumer perceptions will affect trust. Media: Asia's Media & Marketing Newspaper. p. 22. My Local Supplier. (2014). Costa Mesa: Experian Information Solutions, Inc. Retrieved from http://search.proquest.com/docview/1608015153?accountid=33575 Neff, J. (2008, June 18). Kmart CMO quitting, will fight for gay marriage. Advertising Age. Retrieved from http://adage.com/article/news/kmart-cmo-quitting-fight-gay-marriage-127814/ Opportunity facts. (2014, August). Retrieved from http://news.walmart.com/walmart-facts/economis-opportunity- fact-sheet Peterson, H. (2014. March 26). This rapidly expanding grocery chain is shockingly cheaper than Walmart. Business Insider. Retrieved from http://www.businessinsider.com/this-grocery-store-has-the-lowest-prices-2014-3 PR, N. (2013, October 23). Out & Equal Workplace Summit Celebrates 15th Anniversary. PR Newswire US
  • 38. References Robertson, G. (2013, April 14). How to create a brand strategy road map. Beloved Brands. Retrieved from http://beloved-brands.com/2013/04/14/road-map/ Ulrich, D., Younger, J., Brockbank, W., & Ulrich, M. (2012). HR from the outside in: Six competencies for the future of human resources. New York: McGraw-Hill. Um, N. (2014). Does gay-themed advertising haunt your brand?. International Journal Of Advertising, 33(4), 811-832. doi:10.2501/IJA-33-4-811-832 Wal-Mart to offer health benefits to same-sex partners of employees.(2013, Aug 28). Portland Press Herald, Retrieved from http://search.proquest.com/docview/1428424812?accountid=33575

Editor's Notes

  1. Opening remarks:
  2. Opening remarks: The purpose of this presentation is to propose a designed brand recruitment and retention strategy for attracting LGBT talent for Walmart’s nationwide. The current branding strategy is reviewed in detail and areas of opportunity have surfaced. By aligning the goals and objectives of this project with the existing business strategy, a new approach will form allowing Walmart to strengthen organizational diversity, elevate and modernize the stakeholder’s perception, and integrate progressivism into the purpose and business strategy the “Save money. Live better.” trademark. In order for Walmart to remain the largest retailer in the world (Fortune 500, 2014) increased diversity and respect from the community is key. Fortune.com/fortune500/wal-mart-stores-inc-1/
  3. Narration: In order for Walmart to reach the desired state of an inclusive work environment with favorable stakeholder perceptions, a well designed strategy must be implemented. An analysis of the current goals for the organization, rationale behind these goals, and proven alignment of these goals with the business strategy is a plan for success. Delivering a fluid message throughout the process through increased communication and consistent vision and mission tie-in will ensure the goals stay aligned with the strategy.
  4. Narration: The goals listed show the focus of Walmart through the newly designed branded recruitment strategy. Once the target candidates of the LGBT community and other key stakeholders have been identified, these goals will ensure the message is clearly delivered through the brand, vision, mission and business strategy overall.
  5. Narration: Wal-Mart believes in an all inclusive work environment. The company has been striving for this goal for several years. Wal-Mart believes this will afford itself numerous advantages. First, the focus has always been placing the individual rights and equal treatment for everyone. Next, an individual can be talented regardless of race, color, creed, religion, sexual orientation, etc. The company wants to create an environment where talented individuals find careers. Also, the company wants a strategic alignment with the LGBT community to ensure lawsuits and damaging press does not occur when misunderstanding arise. Wal-Mart is ensuring the goal by the formation of the associate group PRIDE. PRIDE is a group of Wal-Mart employees advising and ensuring Wal-mart for success of including the LGBT community and making Wal-mart their first choice to work. (Diversity and Inclusion Report, 2014.) Reference Diversity and Inclusion Report, 2014. www.walmart.com. Retrieved from: http://cdn.corporate.walmart.com/04/50/c9c4367040029f6b2a4aca089d2c/diversity-inclusion.pdf. Rubric requirements for strategic alignment: Include summary of goals Walmart is trying to achieve Rationale for these goals Alignment of goals with business objective
  6. Narration: Goals/Business Objective: -The core strategy is reflected in the first goal: treating all individuals equally. Wal-mart has revised policies and procedures to ensure this will happen. Wal-mart has put in place employee training, hotlines, and other programs to ensure success. One of Wal-Mart’s three core values is “Respect the Individual.” These values guide the company in every part of their business operations and apply to every employee. (Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, Transgender Associates, 2011.) -The next goal is to take advantage of the LGBT talent pool. In the past, Wal-mart has not been known to support the LGBT issues. So, many LGBT workers have not want to work for the company. Now, Wal-mart is developing programs and encourages all employees in management and leadership programs to reward the most talented employees. (People First, 2004.) This goal will align with the business objective of diversity and promoting the most talented individuals. -The third goal is to avoid potentially damaging press/lawsuits. Wal-Mart is ensuring the goal by the formation of the associate group PRIDE. PRIDE is a group of Wal-Mart employees advising and ensuring Wal-mart for success of including the LGBT community and making Wal-mart their first choice to work. (Diversity and Inclusion Report, 2014.) This action will help the company ensure success in meeting in strategy. Diversity and Inclusion Report, 2014. www.walmart.com. Retrieved from: http://cdn.corporate.walmart.com/04/50/c9c4367040029f6b2a4aca089d2c/diversity-inclusion.pdf. Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, Transgender Associates. (2011 February 11.) Retrieved from: http://newyork.walmartcommunity.com/gay-lesbian-bisexual-transgender-associates.   Giammon, Craig. (2014, November 19.) Wal-Mart Improves Treatment of LGBT Employees, Report Finds. www.businessweek.com. Retrieved from: http://www.businessweek.com/news/2014-11-19/wal-mart-makes-strides-in-treatment-of-gay-workers-report-finds.
  7. Opening remarks: Walmart employs over 1.3 million individuals across the globe. They offer a wide range of positions including entry level, seasonal, and management positions and welcome the opportunity to grow talent within the organization. In fact, about 75% of the store managers within Walmart started as hourly floor associates. (“Opportunity facts”, n.d.) Currently, Walmart prides themselves on giving associates full visibility to their growth options and offer competitive benefit plans. Walmart has been known to promote the Global Women’s Economic Empowerment Initiative to improve women’s lives and diversify the Walmart family. They also have a direct focus on hiring veterans specifically those honorably discharged within the first 12 months off of active duty. Walmart extends this promise to military family members through the Walmart Military Family Promise. In fact, Walmart is the largest private employer of veterans and they are still striving to hire more. (“Opportunity facts”, n.d.) In relation to their competitors, Walmart reputation with workplace diversity strictly in regards to LGBT is stressed. For example, according to the corporate Equality Index 2014, Walmart scored only an 80% while Target scored 100%. Although this does reflect a 40% growth for Walmart, it also shows a great are of opportunity. This growth also promotes Walmart’s ability to accept change and diversify its team. Target seems to have a far more transparent view of the LGBT community. The Target brand promotes LGBT through an LGBTA Business Council. This is the type of approach Walmart needs to deploy. The negative views of the organizations from the community, the organizational reputation, and employee and customer satisfaction all build a key part of the employer brand and ultimately, organizational success. For Wal-Mart, these influences are the views of the LGBT community. Without positive experiences from the stakeholders in regards to LGBT views, the organization will continue to struggle to gain maximum buy in.   Extending our employer brand to include the LGBT community is something that makes sense for the company to undertake, however it will not be without challenges. With 54% of our consumers expressing views that would appear to oppose LGBT equality it will be a difficult task to get all internal and external stakeholders on board with our decision to expand our brand to include recruitment strategies diversifying our personnel with more LGBT employees.  In an effort to remain competitive in a global marketplace this brand expansion needs to be handled properly.  There are many countries in which we do business that are not as accepting as the United States in terms of LGBT equality and we need to make it clear to them that this is how we intend to run our business and that equality for all of our employees is of the utmost importance.  In tailoring an LGBT friendly brand we must not forget all of our other workforce segments and must provide everyone company-wide the same level of benefits, advancement opportunities, and overall job satisfaction.  To avoid potential challenges with employees we should make sure that our policies are broad and inclusive.  Diversity and inclusion training must start with our management teams as they are to be the leaders of such change within each store and department.  If we do not have buy-in from the management team the rest of the employees will not readily follow suit. Opportunity facts. (2014, August). Retrieved from http://news.walmart.com/walmart-facts/economis-opportunity-fact-sheet
  8. Opening remarks: An analysis was conducted exposing the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats of both internal and external influences. Perspectives of the LGBT community as well as those of other key stakeholders have been considered within this analysis. Each specific area of this S.W.O.T. matrix will be broken down in detail regarding the impact on the organization in the following slides.
  9. Narration: Promotes equality – Not only is diversity the way of the future, but it is key to organizational growth. Kerby and Burns (2012) reported promoting equality fosters an inviting work environment. This results in decreased turnover rates, and increased retention year-over-year. With increased retention, Walmart would avoid related turnover costs, therefore increasing profits. Supports non-discriminatory mindset – Training and open-minded approach will allow for other employees to learn and grow along with the company. Growth within the company shows the organizations devotion to its employee development. Also, leadership will be born within the organization as employees grown with the business strategy and implementation of newly designed aspects of the organization’s vision and goals. Kerby, S. & Burns, C. (2012). Promotes family values – showing compassion for family values expresses the organization devotion to its team members. This will also help strengthen the organization, foster a positive work environment, and create an increased level of stakeholder morale. Increases competitiveness – Not only will this new approach show Walmart’s ability to accept change, but it will also make Walmart more competitive within the market. Increasing competitiveness within the market will drive economic growth. As the workforce continues to become more diverse, so will those organizations that hire them. Increased candidate/talent pool – With an increased number of candidates with diverse views, talents and experiences are able to accompany those of other stakeholders to strengthen the organization as a whole. Walmart will draw from this increased experience and talent pool to strengthen community perception and meet align the business strategies to meet business goals. A more qualified pool of candidates will also help increased competitiveness and improve the bottom line. Kerby, S. & Burns, C. (2012) Adaptability/Flexibility – Increasing the talents, beliefs, and skillsets within the workplace open up opportunities for success. Greenberg (2004) reported a diverse collection of skills and experiences allows the organization to provide an increased level of service to an increased number of customers. This also encourages all employees to work to their greatest ability and allows employees to learn from each other and grow. This results in increased adaptability which, in turn, has a positive effect on the stakeholders perception of the organization. Diversity also creates an ability for the organization to become more flexible in problem solving and communication. Greenberg, J. (2004). Diversity in the workplace: Benefits, challenges and solutions. The Multicultural Advantage. Retrieved from www.multiculturaladvantage.com/recruit/diversity/diversity-in-the-workplace-benefits-challenges-solutions.asp Kerby, S. & Burns, C. (2012). The top 10 economic facts of diversity in the workplace: A diverse workforce is integral to a strong economy. Center for American Progress. Retrieved from https://www.americanprogress.org/issues/labor/news/2012/07/12/11900/the-top-10-economic-facts-of-diversity-in-the-workplace/
  10. Narration: 1.  Even though Mike Duke is no longer the acting CEO of Wal-Mart, he did in 2009, support a bill that would deny gay couples the right to adopt in Arkansas.  The LGBT community is not likely to forget this issue and it speaks to the ultra conservative roots of the organization that it will be hard for us to gain trust and rebrand. 2.  Walmart has such a negative image when it comes to the LGBT community that any extension to the employer brand may seem like it is just a business strategy and not genuine.  Huffington Post has a Gay Voices paper dedicated to LGBT news and it is polluted with new stories about Walmart employees taking matters into their own hands and showing prejudice to customers and other employees.  A janitor in Chickasha, OK asked a gay couple to leave his Wal-Mart because of his religious beliefs (Francisco, 2013).  Employees like this will make it hard for Wal-Mart to win the hearts of the LGBT community. 3.  We have deep conservative roots in the south with 54% of Americans who shop at Walmart opposing gay marriage it shows that the company could have some serious repercussions with expanding our employer brand to include the LGBT community. 4.  29 states still don’t have legislation making it illegal for companies to fire an employee for being gay (HR Focus, 2013). Because we have employees spanning across the United States, it is important that we make sure that our policies broad and are inclusive of all LGBT employees.  Without proper diversity and sensitivity training we could have potential lawsuits of discrimination and harassment on our hands. 5.  Increased marketing and benefits cost will be a weakness.  While trying to reduce healthcare costs Walmart will be eliminating health insurance for employees who work less than 30 hours a week which is approximately for 30,000 workers (Halzack, 2014).  6.  Expanding the employer brand to cover LGBT employees may cause existing employees discomfort or lower job satisfaction due to conflicting religious and personal beliefs.  Employees may decide that the Wal-Mart that they got hired into is not the same Wal-Mart anymore and may decide to leave the company.  This could result in many gaping holes within the company and could result in low morale and disengaged workers.  There may be more terminations as well when employees who violate our policies on discriminating against gay co-workers.    References: Companies, LGBT Employees Still Face Challenges to Inclusive Workplaces. (2013). HR Focus, 90(7), 8-10. Cox, D. (2014, August 8). Target’s support for same-sex marriage mirrors customers’ views. Public Religion Research Institute. Retrieved from http://publicreligion.org/2014/08/targets-support-for-same-sex-marriage-mirrors-customers-views/ (Links to an external site.) Francisco, C. (2013, November 7). Wal-Mart responds after gay couple told to leave. News Channel 4 KFOR. Retrieved fromhttp://kfor.com/2013/11/07/wal-mart-responds-after-gay-couple-told-to-leave/ (Links to an external site.) Halzack, S. (2014, October 7). Wal-Mart to end health insurance coverage for some part-time workers. The Washington Post. Retrieved from http://www.washingtonpost.com/news/get-there/wp/2014/10/07/wal-mart-to-end-health-insurance-coverage-for-some-part-time-workers/ (Links to an external site.)
  11. Narration: According to Credit Donkey (2013), with the buying power of LGBT consumers steadily rising, businesses that have underestimated the size of this group may want to revisit their marketing strategies. By putting facts and figures about the buying power of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) community together, they highlight the growing proportion of this consumer group’s spending power. 6.8% of Americans are part of the LGBT community and 83% gays and lesbians are “out of the closet”. There are 646,464 same sex couples that live in the United States, and their estimated buying power as of 2012 is $790 billion. This creates an enormous opportunity for additional revenue for Walmart. Credit Donkey. (2013). The rise of the LGBT consumer. Retrieved from http://visual.ly/lgbt-consumer-statistics
  12. Narration: 58% of lesbians and gay men report being more likely to buy everyday household items and services from companies that market to lesbians and gay men. Interestingly enough, 33% reported boycotting a company in 2008-2009 because the company supported anti-LGBT causes. Average yearly spending on consumer packaged goods is 25% higher for same-sex households than average households. Credit Donkey. (2013). The rise of the LGBT consumer. Retrieved from http://visual.ly/lgbt-consumer-statistics
  13. Narration: Competitors offer greater support for the LGBT community – Walmart has been known to be a voice against LGBT community. For example, Walmart supported a bill in Arkansas that did not allow for gay couples to adopt children. (Act One Flyer) CEO Mike Duke went on record as a huge supporter of the bill. Recently, Walmart has been trying to change their stance. In 2013, Walmart attempted to change its perception and offered health care benefits to the LGBT community (Walmart to offer benefits, 2013) Their competition has been more vocal in their support for the LGBT community. For example, Target supported the legal efforts for marriage equality in the Supreme Court. The company with numerous other Fortune 500 companies submitted legal briefs supporting marriage equality to the Supreme Court. This action earned Target support and praise from several organizations with the LGBT community. (O’Connor, 2014) Loss of suppliers - If support for the LGBT community continues to grow, then suppliers could refuse to provide products to Wal-Mart. Although this has not happened to date, Wal-Mart has been refused by suppliers based on their reputation. In 2006, Snapper CEO meet with the Wal-Mart Vice President at their Headquarters in Arkansas. The V.P. insisted on Snapper making a cheaper model on their product. After an intense conversation, the Snapper CEO refused to supply Wal-Mart. In the end, Snapper decided not to damage its reputation by being associated with Wal-Mart. (Fishman, 2006.) Global view on LGBT - Although Wal-Mart started as a domestic company, the company is now global. The United States is accepting of the LGBT community while some countries globally are lagging behind in acceptance. Recently, a native Chinese man was arrested in China for organizing a rally in support of gay people. In 2013, only fourteen countries had legalized gay marriage. (China, 2013.) If Wal-Mart comes out in support of LGBT, the backlash could included not be allowed to operate in countries that oppose LGBT issues. Loss of talent - If Wal-Mart does not accept LGBT workers, then the company could loss valuable talent. Numerous companies have focused on recruiting talent in the LGBT community. Recently, small business in New York focused on recruiting this pool of talent. Companies changed policies to include LGBT workers and offered health and benefit plans. (Ferber, 2014.) Local community backlash/loss of customer bases - If Wal-Mart shows too much support, then the company could lose other customer bases. In 2012, Chick-fil-A CEO spoke out against gay marriage. The LGBT communities arranged “kiss-ins” at numerous Chick-fil-A restaurants. But, Chick-Fil-A set sales records for speaking out against gay marriage. The controversy became so popular that the Governor of Arkansas declared August 1, 2012, Chick-fil-A Appreciation Day. (Lynch, 2012) Wal-Mart could face backlash and loss of customers in states where the population is not for gay marriage and other issues facing the LGBT community. Political fallout - LGBT issues have polarized Americans especially the issue of gay marriage. Wal-Mart and other companies have to demonstrate the right amount of support for LGBT Issues. This year, gay marriage bans were struck down by U.S. Appellate Courts. For example, Wisconsin’s gay marriage ban was lifted. Governor Scott Walker fought to uphold the ban. But was the ruling was issued; he stated that it was now up to the Federal lawmakers to pass legislation on this issue. (Eckholm, 2014.) If Wal-Mart does not align itself properly, the company could face political fallout from a politician trying to make a statement. At all level of government, politicians have passed regulations, re-zone areas, and other tactics that could injury Wal-Mart’s success. Act One Flyer. Retrieved from http://adoptionact.familycouncilactioncommittee.com/adoptionflyer.pdf. Wal-Mart to offer health benefits to same-sex partners of employees.(2013, Aug 28). Portland Press Herald, Retrieved from http://search.proquest.com/docview/1428424812?accountid=33575. China: Gay Rights Activist Held in China.(2013, May 27). Asia News Monitor, Retrieved from http://search.proquest.com/docview/1354874823?accountid=33575. Eckholm, Eric. (2014, September 4.) Gay-Marriage Bans Fall in Wisconsin and Indiana. NY Times.com. Retrieved from: http://www.nytimes.com/2014/09/05/us/us-appellate-court-overturns-same-sex-marriage-bans-in-wisconsin-and-indiana.html?_r=0. Fishman, Charles. (2006, January 1.) The Man Who Said No to Wal-Mart. www.fastcompany.com. Retrieved from: http://www.fastcompany.com/54763/man-who-said-no-wal-mart. Ferber, Lisa. (2014, February 24.) Big Firms lead way on LGBT benefits; Inclusive Business Models Help Local Companies Attract Valued Talent. Crain’s New York Business. Retrieved from:
  14. Narration: Walmart is more liberal with its diversity and prides itself on being the best at saving you money. Adding LGBT brand would further their diversity. Target is a little more expensive but also liberal. Target announced its support for same-sex marriage in a court filing this year, finally putting an end to years of dodging the subject (Bhasin, 2014). They believe everyone should be treated equally under the law, including gay marriage. Kmart is a little more expensive than Walmart and Target, but supports gay marriage. In 2008 the Senior Vice President – Chief Marketing Officer Bill Stewart left the company in order to become a full-time volunteer on a campaign to protect gay marriage in California. (Neff, 2008) Chick-fil-a is less expensive but very conservative since the CEO came out saying he did not agree with LGBT. They sparked controversy over same-sex marriage last summer, and stopped donating to groups that oppose LGBT unions, according to one gay-rights group (Chick-fil-a, 2013). Best Buy is a little more expensive and very conservative. In 2010 Best Buy received criticism from liberal activists for supporting an anti-gay Republican’s campaign. Costco has lower prices, but higher than some of it’s competitors. However, the organization has been known for its liberal views. Recently, the CEO, Craig Jelinek, defended the company after critics accused the organization of pulling a conservative book from shelves for not aligning with its known liberal views. Aldi, a German grocery chain, has the lowest prices compared to Walmart. Aldi keeps prices low by offering a lean selection of items, is heavy on household brands, and carries 5% of the inventory found in traditional stores. Peterson, H. (2014) Bhasin, K. (2014). Target finally comes out in support of gay marriage. Retrieved from http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2014/08/06/target-gay-marriage-stance-_n_5654924.html Chick-fil-a passes muster with gay rights group. (2013, Jan 28). The Ledger. Retrieved from http://search.proquest.com/docview/1367540813?accountid=33575 Gonzalez, A. (2014). Costco CEO: Controversy about conservative book overblown. Retrieved from http://seattletimes.com/html/businesstechnology/2024031339_costcodsouzaxml.html Khimm, S. (2010). Target and Best Buy money flows to dems after citizen united backlash. Retrieved from http://www.motherjones.com/mojo/2010/08/citizens-united-target-best-buy-minnesota-democrats Neff, J. (2008, June 18). Kmart CMO quitting, will fight for gay marriage. Advertising Age. Retrieved from http://adage.com/article/news/kmart-cmo-quitting-fight-gay-marriage-127814/ Peterson, H. (2014. March 26). This rapidly expanding grocery chain is shockingly cheaper than Walmart. Business Insider. Retrieved from http://www.businessinsider.com/this-grocery-store-has-the-lowest-prices-2014-3
  15. Our long-term goal is to create an employment brand that not only supports the LGBT community, but celebrates it. We promote equality, family values, and diversity. We want to make the lives of ALL our customers easier and more affordable so they can live life to the fullest. Wal-Mart’s overall purpose is to save people money, and allow them to live better. Sam Walton, founder of Wal-Mart, stated “If we work together, we’ll lower the cost of living for everyone…we’ll give the world an opportunity to see what it’s like to save and have a better life” (Farfan, n.d.).   References: Farfan, B. (n.d.). Company mission statements: Complete list of world's largest retail missions. Retrieved from http://retailindustry.about.com/od/retailbestpractices/ig/Company-Mission-Statements/Wal-Mart-Mission-Statement.htm
  16. A brand idea needs to take into consideration the feelings and emotions of our target audience (Robertson, 2013).  Our big idea/brand image needs to fulfill the emotional needs of the LGBT community and by doing so will gain their trust and commitment to making our brand sustainable.  We need to show the community that we are committed to the equality and inclusion of every human being. Where are we? Walmart currently has a 90% scoring on the Corporate Equality Index 2015 (Human Rights Campaign Foundation, 2014) which means that our LGBT community relationship is improving. Despite the extension of health benefits to include coverage for same-sex domestic partners, we need to further our reach and acceptance into the LGBT community. Why are we here? Because of our recent change in health benefits to include domestic partners, Walmart was able to increase their score on the Corporate Equality Index 2015 from the 80% rating last year. Our relationship with the LGBT community has been tarnished over the years however. One issue that won’t easily be forgotten is regarding a former CEO who supported a bill to ban adoption by gay couples. We need employees that will represent the company’s interests in the best light to all stakeholders. Where could we be? By scoring 100% on the Corporate Equality Index we would be one of the few companies achieving the designation of Best Places to Work for LGBT Equality. That award would help both out consumer and employer brand and differentiate Walmart with our competitors in both aspects.
  17. How can we get there? The last criteria to earn 100% would be that Walmart needs to offer transgender-inclusive health benefits. Currently only 53% of companies across various industries offer this kind of benefit. What do we need to do to get ready? Walmart needs to provide diversity and inclusion training. We need to provide zero tolerance for discrimination by any employee regardless of title or tenure. We need to extend health benefits to all full time employees regardless of relationship status, sexuality, or gender.
  18. All employers understand that the workforce is shrinking daily. Baby boomers are retiring at a fast pace and the workforce participation rate is moving at a downward rate. These two issues leave a skill gap in the current workforce as well as a labor shortage. (Engle, 2014.) Due these issues, employers understand that every group/classification of Americans must be considered for employment. Equal Opportunity is not only the law but is vital to ensure growth. LGBT talented individuals must want to work at Wal-Mart. There are several ways to accomplish this goal. First, Wal-Mart must have outreach programs. PRIDE is a program for current Wal-Mart employees. Also, Wal-Mart needs to partner with internet job websites such as Indeed.com. This website (as well as other websites) has listing for LGBT friendly positions with the company. Next, the company needs to continue to change public perception of Wal-Mart. Recently, Wal-Mart has been working on changing the company’s imagine. Wal-Mart can support different LGBT issues to continue this process. First, Wal-Mart can support shelters and health clinics that support LGBT community. Also, Wal-Mart can sponsor programs through GLAAD like anti-bully campaigns, information programs for parents with LGBT children, etc. Last, the company needs to ensure that the disciplinary process supports LGBT employees. Basically, discrimination and hostile work environment complaints will be dealt with swiftly and not be tolerated. Reference Engle, P. (2014). The incredible shrinking workforce. Industrial Engineer, 46(7), 22. Retrieved from http://search.proquest.com/docview/1546476665?accountid=33575.
  19. Encourage diversity/Cultural Awareness – Employing and retaining LGBT members will promote innovation, encourage creativity, while driving the competitive advantage within the market. All of these items will help Walmart’s meet overall focus on low prices as well. Leadership advocates of diversity – Leadership members will be well-versed in diversity, to transform thinking. This type of leadership will promote diversity while addressing opportunities and challenges for growth. This is also shown through Walmart’s overall values in that the leadership will support associates to serve customers as best as possible while modeling desired behavior to strive for excellence. (Culture, n.d.) Ensure all employees feel valued, honored, and respected – Not only will this increase retention and morale, but research shows that when employees feel valued, the organization also benefits. This is shown through increased customer satisfaction and productivity. (Halkos & Bousinakis, 2010) This value also supports Walmart’s overall value of respect for the individual. Specifically, this value is to recognize the contributions of all employees, empower employees, and communicate by listening and sharing ideas. (Culture, n.d.) Create relationships to strengthen mutual interests and values – This is also shown through Walmart’s Act with Integrity value. Ensuring there is open communication and transparency to make all employees comfortable. This will allow for employees to build relationships that foster growth and innovation for both the company and the individual employee. Honesty and fairness will help ensure all employees feel supported in their position, both personally and professionally. (Culture, n.d.) Culture. (n.d.). Retrieved from http://corporate.walmart.com/our-story/working-at-walmart/culture Halkos, G. & Bousinakis, D. (2010). The effect of stress and satisfaction on productivity. International Journal of Productivity and Performance Management, 59(5), 415-431.
  20. Our promise is that our employees will be able to bring their whole authentic selves to work because we will provide a safe and welcoming environment.  In order to achieve this we need to promote a culture of inclusion and tolerance. Our strategy is to provide sensitivity and diversity training to all employees.  We are extending health benefits to include domestic partners for our full time employees.  We will be participating in local Pride events with Wal-Mart booths.  We will also increase our score on the Corporate Equality Index for 2015. Advertising to tell our story needs to include same-sex couples shopping so that we can attract LGBT consumers which will then strengthen our consumer brand.  We can also secure a well-known openly gay spokesperson to help with this advertising and possible employer brand promotion.  A place where you can “Save Money. Live Equal.” We can be innovative and fresh by creating a national non-profit organization that provides LGBT support to adolescents in our communities as a way to ensure that Wal-Mart is the brand that kids grow up wanting to work for while also promoting CSR initiatives. To achieve our new employer brand we need to start with the experience of the consumers.  We need to make sure that Wal-Mart continues to be a place where every human being can “Save Money. Live Better.”   Corporate Equality Index 2015. (2014) Human Rights Campaign Foundation, 1-108. Retrieved from http://hrc-assets.s3-website-us-east-1.amazonaws.com//files/assets/resources/CEI2015.pdf#__utma=149406063.1168982250.1415932173.1417297409.1417312794.4&__utmb=149406063.1.10.1417312794&__utmc=149406063&__utmx=-&__utmz=149406063.1417312794.4.4.utmcsr=google|utmccn=(organic)|utmcmd=organic|utmctr=(not%20provided)&__utmv=-&__utmk=205371664 Froelich, J. (2012, December 12). Gay Walmart group PRIDE comes out. Arkansas Times. Retrieved fromhttp://www.arktimes.com/arkansas/gay-walmart-group-pride-comes-out/Content?oid=2568636&showFullText=true (Links to an external site.)   Robertson, G. (2013, April 14). How to create a brand strategy road map. Beloved Brands. Retrieved from http://beloved-brands.com/2013/04/14/road-map/
  21. Narration: The consumer/target audience oriented strategy will be a key component to ensure success in improving the LGBT experience. It is imperative that Wal-Mart focuses on its core strengths and values, which is treating all employees and customers equally. Focusing on these core values is essential to the success of any consumer strategy (Fang, 2011). Wal-Mart’s core value is at the heart of its success. Another key area of this strategy will be Wal-Mart partnering with GLAAD through its internal employee group PRIDE. As mentioned later, the company’s sponsoring of events focusing on the LGBT community will signal Wal-Mart’s improved view of the LGBT community. Next, Wal-Mart will seek out charitable organizations that focus of LGBT issues. Wal-Mart donates to several worthy charitable organizations. The best way to communicate this strategy to stakeholders will be through a memo published through email channels and company shift briefings. Also, a press release would ensure that all of the external stakeholders were notified, and that the company’s intentions are clear. It should include that this is not a change of the core values but rather an enhancement. The best mediums for this strategy are social media and advertising. Social media has emerged as the platform for companies to engage with internal employees, customers, and partners (Ulrich, Younger, Brockbank & Ulrich, 2012). Almost every company has a Facebook page and LinkedIn. Wal-Mart can post on its Facebook page detailing charitable donations. They can also discuss ongoing sponsored events and testimonies from LGBT employees about how great it is to work at Wal-Mart. Utilizing Twitter is an easy way to spread the word on the day of sponsored events. Advertising will be a two-pronged approach. First, the company can produce television ads featuring employees from all walks of life. The narrative needs to convey a message of diversity and equally. Next, the weekly ad can contain in the bottom right corner of the first page “proud sponsor of GLAAD” with GLAAD’s official symbol. These mediums will ensure to convey Wal-Mart’s message. References Fang, E. (2011). Consumer inspired: Consumer strategy lessons that inspire the way method envisions the future. Brand Packaging, 15(7), 40. Retrieved from http://go.galegroup.com/ps/i.do?id=GALE%7CA268404128&v=2.1&u=mlin_b_necbusin&it=r&p=ITOF&sw=w&asid=7d5e08a89e310b254bafc3cab81ddff1 Ulrich, D., Younger, J., Brockbank, W., & Ulrich, M. (2012). HR from the outside in: Six competencies for the future of human resources.  New York: McGraw-Hill.
  22. Narration: In developing a competitive strategy, the master brand has to be identified. Wal-Mart strives on being the low cost leader. Recently, the company has launched another campaign referencing eating healthy. Wal-Mart has a huge competitive advantage in reference to suppliers and supply chains. The company can seek out local suppliers/vendors that are owned and operated by LGBT community members. This could cost the company a small amount on the bottom line, but the dividends for supporting the local community is that it causes increases customer awareness and expands the customer base. (My Local Supplier, 2014.) Most of Wal-Mart’s competitors do not have the financial flexibility to complete this task. Another area of emphasis is current LGBT employees. The promotion of deserving LGBT employees should be highlighted and celebrated. For example if a LGBT employee is promoted to a leadership position, then a company-wide memo should be distributed (if the employee approves.) One word of caution, this action should not suggest to start an affirmative action style program, but rather to highlight deserving employees. Wal-Mart has the advantage over its competitors due to the superior number of employees the company employs at its numerous locations. This tactic will further enhance Wal-Mart’s core values of inclusiveness and equality. Also, the company can start an outreach program through education. Wal-Mart can seek out LGBT community (local, region, and national) leaders to speak at seminars about the difficulties that LGBT employees can face. The seminar can also focus on the expertise that LGBT employees can bring to the company. This tactic will be the one of the first of its kind in the retail industry. Effective communication will be accomplished through several channels. First, a detailed meeting with the department that manages suppliers/vendors must be conducted. The meeting must include acceptable loss and expected returns. This will ensure that there is not any confusion about the new process. Next, the company-wide memos for LGBT promotions as well as Facebook posts should be issued promptly. The seminars should be face to face. All levels of leadership should be allowed to attend the conference. Digital copies should be made available later on for those not able to attend. Facebook can be utilized to post dates of conferences and testimony from attendees. Although not an official channel of communication, a huge buzz (word of mouth) should be generated by these seminars due to this being a new tactic employed in our industry. Recently My Local Supplier. (2014). Costa Mesa: Experian Information Solutions, Inc. Retrieved from http://search.proquest.com/docview/1608015153?accountid=33575
  23. Narration: Tactics for strategic focus in operations: 1.  By subscribing to Out and Equal Career Link we can post open positions to attract LGBT talenthttp://www.outandequal.org/resources/lgbt-careerlink/ (Links to an external site.) 2.  Attend the Out and Equal Workplace Summit 2015 to gain insight on best practices to create LGBT workplace equality.  As Walmart is a global company it is important to have a presence at this summit.  It is attended by over 27 countries and draws over 2,000 attendees (PR, 2013). 3.  Quarterly employee newsletter could have a section called “Who we are” and it can feature an article about a particular employee who would like to share their story with co-workers.   Having such an article would show our employees just how diverse we are and create an atmosphere of inclusion and equality.   Reference: PR, N. (2013, October 23). Out & Equal Workplace Summit Celebrates 15th Anniversary. PR Newswire US Operational Strategies: Inclusive leadership development/training Promote diversity and equality Increase effective communication Empower employees equally
  24. The measurement of referrals will be accomplished by asking how did the applicant hear about the job opening and placing the same question on the online application. The online application will include a drop down box that will include the option of selecting the Out and Equal website. There should be an increase in applications and then “level-off” at a certain level. This KPI will be considered successful if applications maintain at least 10% increase. The monitoring of participation in the internal employee group PRIDE will be tracked through total participation count only. Basically, Wal-Mart will never ask for a by name attendance roster. Local managers will meet with the local PRIDE representative at least once a quarter or sooner if issues arise. The local PRIDE representative will be encouraged to focus on retention issues as well as ways Wal-Mart (at all levels) can engage and contribute to the LGBT community. This KPI will be considered successful if membership in the PRIDE group increases by 15% and remains close to the increased level. In 2012, discrimination based on sexual preference (LGBT) became illegal due to Equal Employment Opportunity Commissions findings in the case of Macy v. Dep't of Justice. Furthermore, two executive orders reinforced this decision as well as establishing procedures for reporting violations. (EEOC website.) Wal-Mart will establish and refine in-house procedures that will mirror the Federal regulations. This KPI will be successful if the number of issues/complaints decrease 20% every year. Wal-Mart will reiterate the company’s zero tolerance policy as well.   Reference EEOC Website. (2014.) Processing Complaints of Discrimination by Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender (LGBT) Federal Employees. Retrieved from: http://www.eeoc.gov/federal/directives/lgbt_complaint_processing.cfm.
  25. The development of an outreach program will become a key component for success. The outreach program will be coordinated with local and regional PRIDE members as well as local members of the LGBT community. The intent of the outreach program will be to educate and integrate of LGBT employees and community. The outreach program will vary by region do to different culture subsets. The goal is to have the first outreach programs announced and completed within twelve months. The subscription to Out and Equal website should be completed within one month. Corporate HR will add this website to our HRIS system that post open positions automatically to job board websites. The HRIS system already accomplishes this task for several other job boards; therefore, this will not be a difficult task to complete. The equal treatment on customers and employees has been a constant focus of Wal-Mart. The company will revisit the approach in reference to the LGBT community. This will ensure that all available measures are being integrated into Wal-Mart’s diversity program. This process is anticipated to be completed within the first six months.
  26. Obtaining local LGBT suppliers and vendors will be quite an undertaking that cannot happen over-night, therefore we have sequenced this goal in long term tactics.  We need to build our employer and brand image in the LGBT community to gain the trust of these business owners before they will feel comfortable working with us. We highlight the important fact that a high percentage of our management team is made up of women.  We also show on our website how much we support the empowerment of women.  It is time that we recognize and highlight the career advancement of our LGBT workforce as well.  This move to showcasing our diverse employee base and the highlighting of promotions of LGBT employees will take time however.  We cannot promote employees simply because they are LGBT so the process is part of our long term tactics.  The development of the outreach program is also part of the long term tactics as we will need a few months to find and request speakers within the LGBT community that is willing to partner with us.  As we start to change our brand image within the community and show that we want equality and inclusion of LGBT employees within our company our hope is that it will be easier and easier to find speakers and educators for our outreach program.
  27. As stakeholder perceptions continue to evolve we need to be prepared to handle changing social views and be aware of how these perceptions can affect our company while still maintaining trust (Lindstrom, 2007).  We need to have metrics in place to gauge the changes and how we are affected in different areas of the business. For customers, community, and potential employees we will be measuring to see if our increased visibility in the LGBT community has increased or decreased sales.  We will monitor and highlight local recognition such as Chamber of Commerce and as “Best Places to Work” awards.  We will also monitor perceptions of potential employees to see if employee referrals have increased due to higher level of involvement in LGBT community. Employee perceptions can be measured and monitored by continued employment, employee advancement, and organizational loyalty. An increased number of employee referrals would also mean positive perceptions. These measurements can give us an idea of how likely are our employees willing to champion our brand? Vendor perception needs to be monitored in the long term as we increase our LGBT owned and operated vendors and ask existing vendors for feedback to see if their perceptions have changed.  We can look at whether we have lost relationships with some vendors because of our LGBT inclusion or have we increased partnerships? Shareholder perceptions need to be monitored as well as we continue to increase our LGBT community involvement and continue to hire and promote LGBT talent. Lindstrom, M. (2007, April 20). Evolving consumer perceptions will affect trust. Media: Asia's Media & Marketing Newspaper. p. 22.
  28. Anticipated future growth will create new opportunities for success both within Walmart as an organization and in the impacted communities. Strategic, long-term goal development provides a clear direction for organizational growth and should be tied into the organizational strategy and culture. By monitoring the domestic response from the new Walmart branding strategy, we will be able to tell what is successful and what needs modification. Regional cultures can be seen through sales, market response as well as social media. Monitoring the social media feedback will allow some insight into the integration of the new strategy from a different platform. Using various methods to gather feedback will ensure the reaction is measured in entirety, with a well developed theme. Closely observing these responses will allow us to make necessary changes to meet our long term goals with our new talent. Laws are always changing in regards to employment. Since branding affects talent acquisition and retention, Walmart wants to ensure the policies and procedures are being followed and all candidates/employees are treated equally. Diversity is the core of the culture on which Walmart was built. Being inclusive of all people is a priority value. (“Diversity & inclusion”) Diversity & Inclusion. (n.d.). Retrieved from http://corporate.walmart.com/global-responsibility/diversity-inclusion/
  29. Due to our global service area, we will certainly need to take into consideration the markets in which we serve and the role they play in our success. Regional cultures can be seen through sales, market response as well as social media. Again, using various methods to gather feedback will ensure the reaction is measured accurately. Closely observing these responses will allow us to make necessary changes to meet our long term goals with our new talent. Although many countries may have strict laws guidelines for LGBT talent, Walmart consistently works to create accepting global policies to hire and retain a diverse workforce.
  30. n the United States, there may be some parts of the country that won’t approve of the LGBT talent. Domestically there are approximately 4,500 stores all over the country. In the south, there tends to be an abundance of conservative people. This is a good example of who may not be in favor of the LGBT branding. Although we will never be perfect, the US is still an overall understanding country in terms of diversity. There are approximately 6,000 international locations. In certain cultures, being gay may not be something that is okay. Parts of Africa, India, China, etc. may not have positive views on this. LGBT consumers have, in recent years, come to repre­sent a market of considerable spending power. Marketers now consider them an important target segmentation, possessing relatively large amounts of disposable income (Um, 2014). When marketing gay-themed ads, it is important to think of these questions: ‘Will heterosexual consumers be alienated by ads targeting gay consumers?’ and ‘Does simply running advertising in gay media make heterosexual consumers think a brand gay?’ To avoid alienating non-gay consumers, marketers use culturally meaningful symbols or ico­nographies in gay-themed ads (Um, 2014). Um, N. (2014). Does gay-themed advertising haunt your brand?. International Journal Of Advertising, 33(4), 811-832. doi:10.2501/IJA-33-4-811-832
  31. Designing a brand recruitment and retention strategy in order to attract LGBT talent for WalMart nationwide is our goal. By aligning the goals and objectives of this project with the existing business strategy, a new approach will form allowing Walmart to strengthen organizational diversity, elevate and modernize the stakeholder’s perception, and integrate progressivism into the purpose and business strategy the “Save money. Live better.” trademark. Our strategic alignment includes a summary of goals, rationale, and alignment of goals and business objectives.  For our situational analysis, we must analyze Walmart’s place in the LGBT community and evaluate the current positioning in attracting this talent. Are there challenges involved? A SWOT analysis is necessary to determine the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats of both internal and external influences. Our long-term goal is to create an employment brand that not only supports the LGBT community, but celebrates it. We promote equality, family values, and diversity. Compiling our brand idea will help us establish how to get to our overall goal. Where are we? Why are we here? Where could we be? How can we get there? What do we need to do to get ready? Our brand strategy road map will verify each step needed to be made. Lastly, our strategic focus will identify our overall tactics for consumer, competitive and operational strategies.