Diversity In The Workplace Essay

Generally when someone begins speaking about diversity in the workplace, thoughts of Affirmative Action, racial diversity, or even sexual equality are usually foremost in our thoughts. However, diversity in the workplace really is so much more than this, we must also consider aging workers, handicapped workers, those with alternative lifestyles, and even physical traits to name others (For the sake of simplification, throughout this paper these will usually be included in the term, minorities).

Gender, racial, and ethnic diversity means different things to different people. Some believe that diversity is about quotas, and affirmative action. Others believe that diversity is something that will happen on its own with out intervention. Some experts who study diversity, however, believe that diversity is not something that should be left up to chance. It is important, therefore, for organizations to take

First, the “don’ts.” Don’t use quotas when establishing hiring or promotion policies. They don’t work and often breed resentment in those who have not been selected for a position. On the other, they create doubt within those who have. Don’t force diversity down people’s throats. It can’t be imposed from above although management commitment is essential to its success. Creating culture is a bottom-up, gradual exercise. Avoid taking only a cosmetic approach to diversity. Don’t join clubs that discriminate against or deny membership to women or any minority or religious group. And don’t associate the name of your organization with such institutions. Finally, don’t wait to be legislated into adopting a diversity strategy. You want your employees and customers to see you as being out in front on this issue. They won’t, if you have to be forced by government or public opinion to embrace it (Poole, 1997, p.