The Importance of Diversity in the Work Environment Belmira, Jolie, & Zander

What is Meant by Diversity? Diversity means having a variety of different things, a mixture, or range Example: “Newspapers were obliged to allow a diversity of views to be printed.”

Why is Diversity Important in the Workplace? Mutual respect: Diveristy fosters mutual respect amoung employees Conflict Resolution: Conflict inevitably occurs in the workplace. Employees who acknowledge other’s differences often find similarities particularly when there’s common goals.

Why is Diversity Important in the Workplace? (cont.) Business Reputation: Diversity in the workplace is important for employees because it manifests itself in building a great reputation for the company Increased Exposure: A diverse workplace offers more than exposure to employees from different cultures & backgrounds

How Can a Business Ensure That There is Diversity in the Workplace? Set standards based on merit, not quotas. Create hiring policies that ensure equal treatment for everyone Have benefits that appeal to a variety of people

How May Diversity Challenges Be Met Communication is a big part. If employees don’t understand the company policies, it can lead to issues in the workplace Have different diversity policies to make your business appealing to a range of genders, races, ethnicities, etc

How May Diversity Challenges Be Met Examples of Diversity Policies: Flexible work hours On-site child care Time off for religious holidays Increase office accessible to a range of disabilities Others?

Moving to a Diverse Workforce Helps the Community Day care centers allow parents to have access to young children. Accessibility/Accommodation policies allow everyone in a community to be productive Policies that promote religious freedom and ethnic expression promotes tolerance Others?