Consumers Energy took the top spot on the U.S. Faith Friendly Workplace Index in the utility sector for its proactive support for employees of all faiths, spiritual backgrounds, and non-believers.
“Eighty-five percent of individuals across the world identify with some kind of faith, but we often don't get to talk about that in the workplace. At Consumer's Energy, that's not a hidden part of who we are.”
Executive Director of Digital Talent Christine Shook co-leads Consumers’ Interfaith Leadership team.
She says true inclusion isn’t just granting time off for a religious holiday; it’s viewing an employee's personal values as a benefit to the company.
“Servant leadership might come through as being a patient or a disciplined person. It might come through as being more resilient amid adversity or change. It might come through as humility and putting your team's needs first.”
The utility giant provides dedicated meditation rooms, accommodating daily prayer requirements for Muslim employees or quiet reflection for Christian, Catholic, and Hindu workers.
“Changing the narrative on what faith looks like in the workplace and seeing faith as an asset can absolutely be a competitive advantage for a company."
Consumers has 500 members in its Interfaith Employee Resource Group, promoting faith as part of diversity, equity and inclusion alongside veteran programs, LGBTQ initiatives and women’s advocacy groups.
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