Creating an Organisational Culture That Values Diversity

[Shakib]

Developing effective work place relationships with diverse people is very important to any organization. Diversity in the workplace adds a special richness, but also will bring about special challenges. Effective diversity work relationships are critical for the success of a particular organization. Diversity more than just being willing to hire all types of employees. It is accepting, celebrating and valuing all people regardless of race, gender, sexual orientation, religion and age.

In present times diversity management plays a major role in the entire HR function. Mainly do to the fact that recruitment is largely based on merit and skill instead of demographics. However it is still one of the major issues that cause grave concern. This is mainly due to the fact that employees are more concerned about the work environment, culture, and satisfaction and employee cohesiveness than just the monthly wage rate.

Diversity in the workplace should start with supervisors, who, in turn, should foster an appreciation for diversity among employees. Building an organizational team that values diversity is a process. In order for successful diversity management organizations should focus on similarities, not differences, among people when building relationships.

Below suggested are simple steps that will help employees build relationships and connections among their colleagues.
Hire a diverse staff.
Obviously, Organizations want to hire the best employee for each position, but persistence can deliver the best staff with different backgrounds. An organization cannot value diversity if it doesn't have a variety of cultures represented.

Organize retreats for employees.
This will give employees a chance to get to know one another outside of work, and build relationships. This will also benefit in inducing team work culture in an organization. By planning some team-building exercises, get-to-know-you games and enjoyable activities that encourage employees to talk to each other and work cohesively.

Diversity workshops
Some organizations fund diversity management programs. Diversity classes expose people to new ideas, promote acceptance and may result in a superior level of productivity. Whether it is conducted online or inviting a diversity expert to deliver an in-office course, diversity workshops can be beneficial to theentire organization.

Appoint a diversity officer
A diversity office- usually a part of human resources–takes several courses per annum in diversity and catalyzes acceptance and cultural consciousness in the organization. The officer also handles culture-related issues and complaints and serves as the central point between people who can't resolve differences on their own.

Collection from