Culture & Employee Experience

At Citizens, our culture impacts every decision we make and everything we do. In the coming year, our goal is to amplify our employee experience through cultivating diversity and inclusiveness in our culture – inspiring learning, collaboration and innovation.

We hear a lot about diversity and inclusiveness these days, but what do they mean? And what do they mean for Citizens?

Simply stated, diversity is the collective mixture of differences and similarities that includes, for example, individual (as well as organizational) characteristics, values, beliefs, experiences, backgrounds, preferences and behaviors.

Inclusion refers to a work environment in which all individuals are treated fairly and respectfully, have equal access to opportunities and resources, and can contribute fully to the organization’s success.

Here at Citizens, our strong sense of beliefs and values that we all share is what makes our culture unique. By intentionally aspiring to cultivate our diversity and create an inclusive atmosphere, it provides an opportunity to further enhance our culture and create an employee experience in which all employees have the opportunity to reach their full potential.

In the face of adversity, we work together to overcome challenges – and 2020 has been a testament to this. Due to the COVID-19 health crisis, we had to quickly make a shift to a predominately remote work environment. Though unexpected, it provided us a pivotal chance to explore new ways of working. In doing so, we have demonstrated that we are flexible, committed to our mission and open to change.

This change in our working circumstances also creates new opportunities to work together to further enhance our culture.

Social connections are the key to spreading our culture. Many departments have found new ways to bring some fun and laughter to their workday and grow connections with each other. We have explored new ways and technologies to collaborate with each other virtually, all the while continuing to build and sustain our strong relationships.

We are excited to look ahead to the coming year. Citizens’ strategic priorities for 2021 include a renewed focus on investing in our employees and fostering an inclusive workplace where everyone knows they are valued. This enhanced, one-of-a-kind employee experience will empower us all to strengthen our connections with each other, as well as our customers, in new ways.