A better connection

To delete or not delete? I’m sure I wasn’t the only one deliberating over whether to remove my Facebook profile this year. With the scanda l involving Cambridge Analytica, the site polluted by ‘fake news’ coupled with revelations that 50million accounts were recently hacked, I’m teetering towards boycotting the site, again. However, despite the warning signs, I relent. I’m awash with weakness when a hilarious video pops up, or a connection from an old friend, let alone the temptations of an unashamed snoop.

Regardless of how you use the site, or whether you trust it, its impact on the way we consume information and interact with others (hello memes) has been seismic, with its user-friendly interface even influencing HR technology. And fortunately, this month I was lucky enough to find out more about how the social media giant is using their influence to improve diversity and engage with underrepresented groups.

For example, just four per cent of Facebook staff are black and five per cent are Hispanic, despite almost half of employment within the California region being made up of these groups. These are figures Facebook are desperate to change as both an employer and digital leader.

In this issue, I speak to their Global Chief Diversity Officer, Maxine Williams, about how they’re advocating greater diversity and broadening their social impact, to ensure no group feels disconnected.

Rianna Fulham - Staff Writer