About Diversity

Diversity and its impact on the workplace

Diversity includes a wide range of differences, from race, gender, sexual orientation, religion, colour, ethnic background, age, education, abilities and disabilities, right through to working styles and personalities. These differences, together with rapid globalisation, huge technological advances, personal travel and the exchange of goods, coupled with global economic developments in general, have meant that the workplace per se has evolved greatly over the past 50 years, almost beyond recognition.

Never before have so many people from such a vast range of backgrounds needed to interact together, work together and share life experiences, and it follows that the concept of "diversity" is relatively new.

Whilst diversity symbolises differences, these need not, and indeed should not, be perceived as negative or bad. They should, rather, be celebrated.

Understanding and embracing the workforce's diversity is key to any company's commercial success. As such, companies should view diversity as one of their strengths and not as a hindrance to growth. Instead of shying away from differences, businesses would do well to learn from them, nurture them and use them to their advantage. Indeed, savvy market players are able to successfully channel diversity within their ranks; transforming it into their trump card leading to increased harmony in the workplace.

When people gain a better insight into what makes others tick, unnecessary issues borne from misunderstanding and a lack of acceptance are averted, leaving employees free to focus on one common goal: the success of the business.

It is extremely important for companies, regardless of their size and business sector, to place diversity management high on their agenda. Commitment to valuing diversity must start at the top of the hierarchical ladder if it is to succeed. Once leaders grasp and embrace the concept, it is up to them to put the necessary measures in place and to take the steps required so as to ensure that the desired approach to diversity is understood, taken on board and put into practice at every level.

I have seen only too well how hidden resentments and misconceptions can have a negative impact on businesses, hindering productivity, profitability, employee motivation and satisfaction.


About diversity

• Diversity is a fact of life
  
• Diversity is a new reality for business strategy
  
• Diversity can create tension, increase complexity and slow down decision making
  
• Diversity can enrich organisations, making them more innovative and globally competitive