solving the case

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Your Authentic Self: Why Diversity Matters at

Target.

Situation Analysis.

This case presents a scenario with a hypothetical challenge. Approach it as if you were a

Target team member.

The U.S. population is more vibrant and varied in composition than ever before with a rapidly shifting cultural demographic. However, diversity means much more than just an ethnic background or race. Diversity can be defined through one’s dimensions of difference; through people’s unique backgrounds, experiences, cultures and thought can they really strive to find their authenticity.

People are looking to embrace their own unique identities and are focusing their future employment decisions on companies that champion diversity and embrace inclusivity as part of their corporate culture. More candidates are asking the question, “How can I bring my authentic self to work at your company?”

At Target we have the benefit of more than 300,000 team members – our greatest asset – all bringing unique perspectives focused on creating joy for the guest. Diversity is the engine that drives our team. From cultural business councils at headquarters to resource groups that generate a sense of community in our stores and fulfillment centers, Target is in support of team members’ passions and interests in the workplace. However, Target is constantly looking to elevate its experience to continue to provide an inclusive work culture.

From your perspective how can Target continue to build on a culture where authentic differences are appreciated?

The Company.

Founded in 1902, Target Corporation (NYSE:TGT) is an upscale discount retailer that provides high-quality, on-trend merchandise at attractive prices in clean, spacious and guest-friendly stores. With 2016 revenue of $69.5 billion, Target has over 1,800 stores and 38 distribution centers in the United States, and over 320,000 team members worldwide. Its online business can be found at www.target.com.

case study

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The first Target store opened in 1962 in the Minneapolis suburb of Roseville with a focus on convenient shopping at competitive discount prices. Target currently is the second largest general merchandise retailer in America, with Target.com consistently ranked as one of the most-visited retail websites. The company continues to deliver on its brand promise of “Expect More. Pay Less.” Since 1946, Target has given five percent of its profit to communities, which today equals millions of dollars a week. Corporate Responsibility magazine has named Target on its “100 Best Corporate Citizens List.”

At Target, we believe diversity and inclusivity make teams and Target better. And we’ll live that belief as champions of a more inclusive society by creating a diverse and inclusive work environment, cultivating an inclusive guest experience, and fostering equality in society.

“In order to champion an inclusive society, we need to reflect diversity in our stores, distribution centers and at headquarters. To get there, we must continue to hire, retain, develop and engage team members across all dimensions of differences. At Target, we believe this isn’t about one team or department, everyone needs to play a role.” - Caroline Wanga, Chief Diversity Officer

The Guest [Consumer].

For Target, the guest is at the center of everything. The company is continually developing new ways to serve the guest anytime, anywhere. Demanding Enthusiasts are Target’s core guests, and they’re digitally connected families who enjoy shopping and demand great value. Typical guests have kids in the household and lots of demands on their time. They are likely to live in urban areas. These guests actively shop in-store and online and are early adaptors of new technology, shopping with one hand on their cart and one hand on their smartphone. They enjoy shopping and want to tell their friends, remaining engaged with social media while shopping and sharing their feedback and experiences online. They are often influenced by others and share their findings to influence others. Guests love Target for its newness, its product assortment and its value.

As demographics shift and people define their identities in increasingly nuanced ways, we’ll continue to evolve our guest experience to make sure it reflects the changing world. By integrating diversity and inclusion throughout our business and company

“When we have a deep understanding of our guests, create a diverse and inclusive workplace and think purposefully about our products and experiences, we elevate Target for our team and guests, and help create a better society for all.” - Brian Cornell, Chairman and CEO, Target

Resources.

 Target Corporate Responsibility Report

 Target Corporate Site - Diversity & Inclusion

 Diversity Inc. / Target

 Forbes: Fostering Innovation Through a Diverse Workforce

 The Effects of Cultural Diversity in the Workplace

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“This list is comprised of companies whose data indicates have the potential to make The DiversityInc Top 50. These companies are judged by the same criteria, using sophisticated SAS software to analyze responses in the following areas:

 Talent Pipeline (workforce breakdown, recruitment, diameter of existing talent)

 Talent Development (employee resource groups, mentoring, philanthropy, movement, fairness)

 Leadership Accountability (responsible for results, communications, visibility)

 Supplier Diversity (Percent of Tier I and Tier II spend with minority-, women-, LGBT-, disability- and veteran-owned businesses)”

The Challenge Ahead.

Create a specific strategy to attract, retain and develop diverse talent for Target. Leverage your research about Target’s values on diversity and inclusion, and any other resources. Consider these questions below:

- How do you define diversity? - How do you encourage team members to embrace their dimensions of difference? - How do you empower leaders to create authentic relationships with their team

members? - What is the benefit of having Team Members bringing their authentic selves? - Who is the target audience for your strategy? - Is this strategy inclusive for all areas of Target? (HQ, Distribution Centers, Stores)

Consider the impact that your recommendations will have on turnover and retention.

Frequently Asked Questions.

Q: What is Target’s belief related to D & I?

A: We believe diversity and inclusivity make teams and Target better. And we’ll live that belief as champions of a more inclusive society by creating a diverse and inclusive work environment, cultivating an inclusive guest experience, and fostering equality in society.

Q: Is diversity a new focus for Target?

A: No. Attracting and retaining diverse talent has been a constant focus rooted in Target’s culture of inclusion We believe that diversity and inclusivity make teams and Target better.

Interested in learning about what it’s like to work at Target? Read the latest Team Member

stories at http://pulse.target.com or visit www.Target.com/careers to view current openings.