Dividends of Diversity

As society and the workforce become more diverse, successful interaction and communication among the various identity groups bring challenges and dividends in three areas. 

A diverse workforce befits consumers, work teams, and business organizations.

CONSUMERS: A staff that is diverse is able to read trends and respond to the increasingly diverse customer base in local and world markets. Teams made up of different people with different experiences are better able to create different products that these markets require. Consumers also want to be able to deal with companies that respect their values and reflect themselves.

WORK TEAMS:  Team members with different backgrounds may come up with more creative and effective problem-solving techniques than those teams that lack diversity. 

BUSINESS ORGANIZATIONS: Companies that cultivate and capitalize on diversity will suffer fewer discrimination lawsuits, fewer union clashes, and less government regulatory action. Companies must realize that diversity is a critical bottom-line business strategy to improve employee relationships and to increase productivity.

Developing a diverse staff that can work together cooperatively is one of the biggest challenges facing business organizations today. 

While diversity can have a positive force within organizations, it can also cause divisiveness, discontent, and clashes. Minorities complain that they are discriminated against in hiring, wages, and promotions. Individuals with different religions feel uncomfortable working alongside each other.

The next post will feature tips for improving communication among diverse workplace audiences.