One company that actively lives this approach is Emporia Telecom. The European smartphone manufacturer based in Linz employs staff from 25 different nations and relies on intercultural collaboration to develop innovative and user-friendly products. Eveline Pupeter, CEO of Emporia Telecom, explains in an interview how this diversity has a concrete impact on the company and its culture.
#schongenial: Ms Pupeter, Emporia Telecom is known for its diversity in the workplace. What does diversity mean for your company?
Eveline Pupeter: For us, diversity is not just a cultural enrichment, but a clear competitive advantage. People from 25 different nations work at Emporia, and this breadth brings a unique dynamic to our company. Different ways of thinking and approaches promote a culture of open discussion in which challenges are viewed from different perspectives. This leads to better decisions and strengthens our innovative power.
#schongenial: How does this diversity specifically affect Emporia's ability to innovate?
Eveline Pupeter: Especially in the technology industry, where markets and customer needs are constantly evolving, a broad perspective is crucial. The different backgrounds, languages and experiences of our employees give rise to new ideas and innovative concepts. This helps us to continuously develop our smartphones, apps and push-button mobile phones and meet the needs of an international target group.
#schongenial: You have locations in several countries. How does international collaboration contribute to the company's success?
Eveline Pupeter: Our team works in various locations, including Brussels, Frankfurt, Helsinki, London, Milan, Paris and Shenzhen in China. Intercultural cooperation is a decisive success factor for us. Sharing experiences from different countries and markets enables us to develop customised solutions that are accepted worldwide.
#schongenial: What role does diversity play in addressing customers?
Eveline Pupeter: Our products are designed for a broad, international target group. Our diverse team enables us to better understand the needs of our customers in different countries. This enables us to develop products that are both technologically innovative and user-friendly.
#schongenial: How important is an open corporate culture in this context?
Eveline Pupeter: An open corporate culture in which respect and mutual learning are encouraged is essential. We attach great importance to respectful cooperation in which everyone can contribute their ideas. This is the only way we can continue to develop and expand our position as the European market leader for easy-to-use smartphones and mobile devices.
#schongenial: Thank you very much for the interview, Mrs Pupeter!
