Work Effectively With Diversity



Work Effectively With Diversity

Introduction

The concept Globalization is used for the procedure of integration of cultures and its people due to human connectivity and exchange of ideologies, products, services, worldviews and aspects of each other's cultures (Steger, 2003). According to Thomas L. Freidman globalization first took place between 1492 -1800 and was the globalization of countries, second was from 1800 to2000 and was the globalization of companies and the third was from 2000 until present day, which is the globalization of individuals and changes in interconnectivity and advancements in technology (Ang, Van Dyne & Tan, 2011).

Global culture was brought about by the missionary religion, which was a new aspect of interaction done globally in 100 CE. Global Culture has incorporated various concepts, ideas and beliefs in cultures globally and has integrated into organizations that now have diverse workforces. However, it has its own set of limits that have been set by the environment or are there because of the diversity (Beckford, 2000).

Diversity

Diversity is the variety in experiences and views that rise from different races, cultures, religions, physical and psychological abilities, ages, heritage, genders, sexual orientations, gender identities and other such characteristics. Diversity is usually perceived to be of ethnicity, gender and race however; the term has a much wider meaning. It is the otherness or those specific human characteristics that set us apart from those who are our own and outside to the communities or group we belong to, yet can be found in other people and groups. The broad dimensions of diversity eventually affect the performance levels, motivation levels, success of the individual and his interactions with others. Organizations that have barriers to elements of diversity should be identified, examined and eradicated. According to a non-discrimination statement, no individual or group should engage in the act of discrimination against another based on his or her race, color, cultural background, nationality, religion, gender, psychological condition, age or status and should instead use this diversity to work together for higher levels of productivity using what each individual has to offer.

When an organization has a diverse workforce, managing it means more than just observing the legal requirements and following policies. To retain, maintain and make use of the workforce available, diversity needs to be celebrated and the differences need to be utilized in a positive manner for maximum successful outcome. It needs to be understood that diversity contributes richness in an institute and needs to be celebrated. Diversity has a lot to offer in terms of unique ideas, improved morale, better teamwork with higher levels of productivity and a workplace where there is an atmosphere of respect and understanding. However if diversity is not managed properly it could lead to employees with low morale, feeling disrespected, low motivation levels, less productivity and a hostile work environment.

Managing Diversity

The process of managing diversity in a workplace is known as the planning and implementation of organizational setups and practices for better management of individuals so that the potential diversity holds is maximized ...