Diversity
Goals Research is clear– Diversity can provide a competitive advantage. Non-diverse work forces are easier to manage than diverse work forces. Discuss both Regardless, risks if firms do not respect diversity. Labor productivity should diminish or labor costs increase.
Diversity Represent the multitude of individual differences and similarities that exist among people. Usually focuses on demographic and social.
Differences between Diversity and Affirmative Action AA Legally driven to get right percentages Remedial efforts— Blame and correct. Diversity Morally, fiscally driven to respect all employees for their differences. Proactive— supportive, supervisory and employee training.
Similarities Many programs are done in both cases. Offering benefits that promote work/home balance. Mentoring programs to minorities. Holding supervisors responsible (bonuses) for achieving good diversity balance.
Interesting Supreme Court has know but a deadline for Affirmative Action programs but many firms will have diversity programs—just not numbers driven.
Why do so many firms value diversity? Lower labor costs, better attitudes and lower turnover Better recruiting Creativity, innovation, group problem solving. Increased sales, market share.
Challenges of diversity Book lists more More difficult because stereotypes/bias Reverse discrimination (self-centeredness) Ethnocentrism Revamp performance appraisal and reward systems. Poor career planning and development Unsupportive work environment
Case What would you do and why? Explain your response. Aware information is not complete.
Generic Actions Include exclude Deny Assimilate Suppress Isolate Tolerate Build relationships Foster mutual adaptation.
Video on Drug Users
Feedback What did you learn? What was vague or needs better explanation?
Summary Dealing with diversity is not easy. Tend to have work values rather than diverse values. To manage diversity, if diversity is valued, need to give all employees reasonable accommodation. What is reasonable. Religion is one example. Example in Iowa with Families. Extend that same feeling to all.