Diversity In The Workplace

5 Pages 1327 Words

Organizational Behavior

STAYING AFLOAT IN THE STORMY SEAS
OF DIVERSITY MANAGEMENT


INTRODUCTION
While the benefits of diversity in the workplace have long been trumpeted, businesses would do well to consider the problems surrounding diversity and diversity training. Research into the subject reveals startling and costly problems that can arise if the subject is handled wrong.
A focused approach is necessary to avoid any one of the problems that can lead to disaster for a business. The first of these problems is that managers face an automatic uphill battle: most employees, minority and majority groups alike, are largely distrustful of diversity training.
This effect is multiplied by the tightrope walk of neither over- or under-emphasizing diversity, with either extreme leading to resentment and ineffectiveness. This is possibly the biggest danger in diversity training and helps explain the controversy of whether or not diversity is really good for business. Many companies using ineffective programs have either seen no advantage or worse, the programs have caused the opposite effect of resentment and a fractured corporate culture.
While sustaining this balancing act, managers must also face pressure from above. During the economic downturn of the last few years businesses have cut spending across the board. In this environment expensive diversity programs have been among the first areas that businesses look to scale back in order to conserve.
The final challenge facing diversity programs is a new dimension in diversity programs. Learning the etiquette and customs of other cultures becomes necessary as companies look to expand into the global market. The sheer complexity and breadth of knowledge needed to operate on an international scale promises to bring the subject to the forefront of diversity programs in the next decade.

RESEARCH
Employee cynicism is the first hurdle that diversity managers must ov...