There are several trends that are driving diversity in the workplace in our society today. Companies just don’t want to be singled out in front of everyone as being the company that discriminates against their employees. Not to mention, discrimination lawsuits tend to get pretty expensive, especially when you have a lot of them!
One trend to think about is the fact that diversity is becoming less about simply being a good corporate citizen. Basic economic theory suggests that not only consumers, but employees as well will correct for a company choosing to lack diversity. Why would a consumer want to spend money on a company’s product if they know that that company isn’t supportive of their cultures and beliefs? On the other hand, why would a person want to work for a company that doesn’t allow them to be themselves? These are big things that managers really need to ask themselves if they want their organizations to be successful.
Another thing to keep in mind is that all in all, the definition of diversity to a business has changed. It is not necessarily all about race, gender, etc. any more, but more about seeking value from diversity in thought. To a business, especially high-tech companies, seeking out talent and different problem solving capabilities is very important to their operations. Companies that are seeking to continue operations long-term have begun to see the dangers of lack in diversity. May plans and procedures have been put into place to encourage diversity, especially when you think of the hiring process.
Rezvani, S. (2016, February 3). Five Trends Driving Workplace Diversity in 2015. Retrieved from Forbes: http://www.forbes.com/sites/work-in-progress/2015/02/03/20768/#4c34901734c9
One trend to think about is the fact that diversity is becoming less about simply being a good corporate citizen. Basic economic theory suggests that not only consumers, but employees as well will correct for a company choosing to lack diversity. Why would a consumer want to spend money on a company’s product if they know that that company isn’t supportive of their cultures and beliefs? On the other hand, why would a person want to work for a company that doesn’t allow them to be themselves? These are big things that managers really need to ask themselves if they want their organizations to be successful.
Another thing to keep in mind is that all in all, the definition of diversity to a business has changed. It is not necessarily all about race, gender, etc. any more, but more about seeking value from diversity in thought. To a business, especially high-tech companies, seeking out talent and different problem solving capabilities is very important to their operations. Companies that are seeking to continue operations long-term have begun to see the dangers of lack in diversity. May plans and procedures have been put into place to encourage diversity, especially when you think of the hiring process.
Rezvani, S. (2016, February 3). Five Trends Driving Workplace Diversity in 2015. Retrieved from Forbes: http://www.forbes.com/sites/work-in-progress/2015/02/03/20768/#4c34901734c9