Diversity at workplace

                                                  

 

                                                                Figure 1: Diversity; (inside6q, 2022)

                                                  

What is diversity?

Diversity refers to the inclusion of people of different nationalities, races, ethnicities, genders, sexual orientation, age, social class, religions, etc. in a group or organization. An inclusive environment promotes and sustains a sense of belonging; and it values and practices respect for the talents, beliefs, backgrounds, and ways of living of its members. A diverse workplace is an inclusive environment that provides equal rights and opportunities for all workers, regardless of gender, color, age, ethnicity, physical ability, sexual orientation, religious beliefs, and so on. It is composed of employees with different characteristics, experiences, talents, skills, opinions, personalities.

Diversity and cultural awareness 

The world has become more interconnected than ever, national borders have diminished. Companies are working with employees and clients from all around the world. Legal and social pressure for ethical practices and equal employment opportunities. Working with diverse people has become inevitable. A culture is a way of life of a group of people. It includes the behaviors, beliefs, values, codes of manners, dress, language, religion, rituals, art. These shared characteristics are passed along by communication and imitation from one generation to the next.

Key characteristics of diversity at workplace

•    Cultural diversity
•    Racial diversity
•    Religious diversity
•   Age diversity
•    Sex/Gender diversity.
•    Sexual orientation.
•    Disability.

Importance of Diversity in the workplace:

• Increased creativity and innovation: Learning new and exciting ways to try to execute different tasks from one another is fun and eye opening. It will increase the team spirit at work and challenge out of date ways of working. 
•   It increases the workforce's range of skills, talents & experiences: it brings together unique experiences, skill sets and opinions which can bring a new and unique perspective.  
•  Variety of different perspectives and enhanced problem-solving: there are more people with differing perspectives and solutions to problems, allowing for a greater chance of a workable solution to a workplace problem.
•   Increased productivity and profits: Diversity in the workplace will also increase employee morale and instill a desire to be more effective and work more efficiently.
•   Improved employee engagement: When workplaces are inclusive and welcoming, it provides people with a sense of belonging and loyalty
•  Speak to a broader market and have a more diverse client base: If potential customers see that a company represents a diverse workplace, it makes them feel like they can relate to the company more. Because your employees come from different backgrounds, they’ll be able to connect with consumers from all walks of life.
• Reduced employee turnover: A workplace that encourages diversity and inclusion will make employees feel valued and accepted. This will ensure happiness among your workforce.
•  Improved company and “employer” reputation: Potential employees want an employer who accepts and is tolerant of all backgrounds, age groups (especially with Gen-Z nowadays), and who treats their employees fairly (Goel.S,2018).

Now the question is, how can we become more encouraging of diversity? What should we do?
 

•  Recognize any unconscious biases you have and address related concerns.
•  Develop cultural awareness and sensitivity: Become culturally competent. Take the time to learn about different cultures, races, religions and backgrounds represented by your colleagues. Ask your coworkers to share some of the customs and practices associated with their cultures
•  During conflict: recognize that people’s feelings are valid. Do your best to see all sides of a conflict and follow company policies to reach a resolution.
•  Acknowledge a variety of upcoming religious and cultural holidays.
• You can take part in or start an Employee Resource Group, or volunteer to chair or serve on committees that organize diversity-related events and activities. Delegate work equitably and thoughtfully—give everyone the chance to shine. Each of us brings to the table a lifetime of experiences and knowledge
•  Offering a safe, anonymous platform for employees to share feedback and suggestions: Help employees feel comfortable expressing themselves, don’t play favorites or have discriminatory practices
•  Communication – Consider differences and act respectfully in the workplace. Welcome ideas that are different from your own, and support fellow teammates
•  Always keep an open mind: Listen to new perspectives from people from all walks of life. It will only give you a broader mind and worldview

 
 Conclusion
In a business environment that is more diverse and global, it is essential to understand cultural awareness and practice it. It will help us create respectful environment and enable us as a team to better communicate. By understanding and acknowledging our differences we create a diverse corporate and personal culture that is inclusive, and everyone feels like they belong.

References 

Goel, S 2018, 'The impact of workplace diversity-benefits and challenges', Cosmos impact factor, vol V, no. 2, pp. 1-3.

Paquibut, RY, Chaudhary, SI & Tunio, MN 2020, 'Iffat Sabir Chaudhry, Rene Ymbong Paquibut & Muhammad Nawaz Tunio |', Do workforce diversity, inclusion practices, & organizational characteristics contribute to organizational innovation? Evidence from the UAE, vol 4, no. 2021, p. (II).

Zojceska , A 2018, 'Top 10 Benefits of Diversity in the Workplace', Talentlyft, no. 2022, p. 1.

Ainomugisha, G., 2022. 10 Amazing Benefits of Cultural Diversity in the Workplace. [Online]
Available at: https://inside.6q.io/benefits-of-cultural-diversity-in-the-workplace/
[Accessed 3 November 2022].