Managing Diversity in the Workplace
An employee opportunity in the workplace
“Managing the multicultural workplace is emerging one of the most important issues facing business” (Elmuti 19). Globalization has increased competition in companies like never before. Whichever company gives the best and most creative solution to address customer needs enjoys a competitive edge in the market. And your employees are the best resource to give you that edge. The more diversified they are, the better it is for your company. There are several advantages of diversified workforce.
Increased Productivity. With employees having a variety of skill sets, abilities, talents and experiences, you can create, execute and sustain creative solutions in various situations. You can make better decisions on resource allocations, and utilization. Besides, productivity will increase, saving you cost and time. At the same time, you can increase customer satisfaction.
Expanded Business. With employees having varied socio-cultural understanding and skills, you can supply to customers on a global scale. You can reach your customers much faster and offer your services more effectively. This can improve your chances of success in the market you enter.
Business Strategies. Workplace diversity brings in a variety of ideas. This helps you come up with effective business strategies. With the variety of employees who actively participate in business decisions, you can tap into the best of ideas and execute your plans across the organization to the intended effect.
However, a diversified workplace environment poses a few challenges of its own.
Here are few guidelines:
Accept and value your employees for what they are:
Individuals are different in their perceptions and attitudes; you must accept this. At times, you may find employees with a different set of values and preferences than yours. Each employee brings with him/her unique experiences and talents. So you need to be comfortable with...