As the cable industry gathers in New York this week to reaffirm its commitment to diversity, an important survey was released today that recognizes efforts being made to increase the representation of women, people of color, and other underrepresented groups throughout the employee ranks. The “2015 NAMIC and WICT Cable Telecommunications Industry Workforce Diversity Survey” — announced today during a Joint Town Hall on Diversity held by the National Association for Multi-Ethnicity in Communications and the Women in Cable Telecommunications Association – gathered data on demographics, by gender and race/ethnicity, across cable operator and programmer companies. The companies that participated represent approximately 65 percent of the U.S. cable industry workforce.
The results reveal that 39 percent of full-time cable employees are people of color, which is higher than the national benchmark of 32 – 36 percent. Eglon Simons, president and CEO of NAMIC, commented that “While there is evidence that our industry is committed to increasing multi-ethnic diversity, continued vigilance and commitment will be essential as we move forward.”
Cable also exceeds the national benchmark in having women in positions at the executive level. Thirty two percent of women are executives in comparison to the national benchmark of 20 – 29 percent of women who hold these positions. Promotion and hire rates are on an upward trend for women since the 2013 survey. After pointing out the progress in important areas in the cable industry for women, WICT president and CEO Maria Brenann said, “Overall, the survey illustrates the need for WICT and our industry to remain resolute in our commitment to creating more opportunities for women.”
The study also found a wealth of efforts being led to promote and encourage the contributions of women and multi-ethnic professionals in cable. More than 60 percent of cable organizations have an internal group that focuses on diversity and inclusion, and 40 percent have staff members dedicated exclusively to promoting diversity and inclusion. New to the survey this year was focus on how cable companies are ensuring that LGBT employees, veterans returning from duty and disabled persons are being hired and included in the workplace.
The survey also highlights the best practices and programs that are being implemented throughout the cable industry to improve diversity, an important way to recognize success but also share ideas that can be used by all. This benchmark is updated biennially as a way to track progress, highlight areas that need improvement and ensure a continued focus on the importance of diversity.
The graphic below breaks out segments of the workforce in comparison to the national benchmark.
