What Is Diversity?
Workplace diversity is about the unique qualities that each individual offers to the team. People in an organization have similarities and differences based on every possible type of criteria. These criteria could be based on:
- Cultural background.
- Work experience.
- Parental status.
- Any other method of describing groups or individuals.
It is important to recognize that this is not a racial or cultural issue. Diversity includes a much broader list that incorporates anyone who brings a different opinion or skill to the group. Diversity can be a great benefit to a company, but some individuals may perceive these differences as a hindrance.
It is important that managers provide a work environment that embraces diversity. A successfully diverse work environment is an environment in which:
- Employees respect the differences and similarities in others.
- Employees learn from those individuals who are different from them to make a stronger, smarter workforce.
In order to understand diversity it is important to know or understand the following:
- Common diversity-related terms.
- Advantages of a diverse workforce.
- Complications that can occur as the result of a diverse workforce.
Other Terms for Diversity
Common terms that are used when discussing diversity include:
Different: This is a term that has both positive and negative connotations. It is important to embrace differences and learn from others that are different instead of being intimidated or frightened by their differences.
Unique: To describe an individual as unique means that they are different, but also extraordinarily special. A unique or rare piece of art is treasured and priceless. Humans should be valued that same way.
Cultural Awareness: Understanding and respecting different cultural values is important, but it alone does not make a workplace diverse.
Stereotypes: These labels, which are often hurtful, that are attached to certain groups because of a certain characteristic or genetic background are important in the discussion of diversity. It is essential to overcome the process of stereotyping and promote the unique values that each individual brings to the table.
Diversity is highly beneficial to companies for many reasons:
- A diverse team means more opinions and ideas, more solutions, and more creativity.
- Different people with different backgrounds offer more options so managers can decide the most efficient and advantageous path to take.
- Co-workers can learn from one another and the team grows and becomes stronger because of its diversity.
- Diversity helps reduce discrimination lawsuits and promotes a positive business image.
Not everyone is open to diversity. Negative attitudes and behaviors can cause major complications in a diverse workforce. Managing these complications includes protecting against discrimination and prejudices.
These complications can cause failures in working relationships, decreased productivity, and overall lack of motivation in the team. Managers and employees must overcome these obstacles and promote diversity in a positive manner.