Benefits of a Diverse Working Environment.
The differences we all possess are the basis for constructing durable and resilient futures. These futures for all of us are based on common goals. When a diverse work force compiles its strengths and utilizes them to their full capacity, a companies chance to gain an effective edge in the current global market is greatly increased. It takes a great effort to make a successful diverse workforce. It is a lot easier for the market to become diverse than it is the organization. As a company is becoming more diverse, it is important to exploit and take advantage of new markets opening up (SHRM, 2000). Learning to value the differences between our co-workers and ourselves will greatly benefit us and the company in numerous ways.
Employees with high creativity and different viewpoints will augment the company's performance. The morale of the employees will increase and in-turn will have a positive affect on the company's turnover rates. Integrated work environments will aid in the elimination of discriminatory practices. Employees will overall be healthier. Illnesses related to stress and the subsequent insurance claims will ultimately be reduced.
Concisely, understanding diversity can effectively create unity within an organization. We can all help make this happen by contributing to healthier working relationships, which in turn, will lead to increased productivity. Just because the workforce is diverse does not necessarily mean there will be benefits to reap. The diverse workforce must be managed effectively for this to happen (kuczynski, 1999).
Continuously Changing Demographics.
Because of the continuously changing demographics of the workforce, diversity will continue to be a human resource issue. Soon the workforce will be comprised of about half women. More then ever before, part of that half will be working mothers. In less than 50 years, ethnic and racial groups will double.