The Importance of Understanding Diversity in a Business Setting

The Importance of sympathy Diversity in a Business Setting Diversity is define as real or perceived differences among people in race, ethnicity, sex, age, animal(prenominal) and mental ability, sexual orientation, religion, cultivate and family status, weight and appearance, and other identity-based attri merelyes that affect their interactions and relationships (Bell, 2012, p. 5). The work force of today is to a greater extent diverse than ever, and the marketplace progressively more global.By 2010 the number of women in the U. S. labor force increased by almost 10 million, a growth rate almost one-third higher(prenominal) than that of men. The success of a workplace depends on a mangers ability to promote a work environment that is inclusive to every(prenominal) person, and that eitherows every employee to reach his or her full potential (Gaines & Wilson, 2005). Benefits of a versatile Workforce According to Bell (2012) there is a accord to be gained from a diverse workforc e.Having employees who argon from various backgrounds canful improve the familys marketing ability by being able to come a while products that meet the take ups and appeal to a more diverse population. By creating a reputation that values all types of employees can lead to burst customer loyalty. Research has shown that groups of people with varying backgrounds bring differences that result in greater creativity and problem-solving abilities. These groups have also displayed more cooperative behaviors on group tasks.The benefits to having a diverse work force be many. Having a work environment centered on creating a comfortable and racy atmosphere requires managements ability to understand that there are differences but that it is important to bridge these gaps and promote working together as a team. Managing a Diverse Workforce It is important as a manager to acknowledge differences, and promote diversity. Successful managers avoid using stereotypes, and generalities when co mmunicating.Managers need to pay attention and respect peoplesvalues and beliefs. They should collapse relationships with their employees, and remember that each person has different talents and strengths. They can learn what whole caboodle to motivate and reward each employee. Employees need continued support in working to their potential by having management provide ongoing opportunities for learnedness and resurrectment (Gaines & Wilson, 2005). Educating and offering classes on cultural diversity is a unspoiled way for employees to learn about how to interact and work productively with a diverse workforce.Left Handed in a Right Handed valet de chambre Being left handed the ball sock experiment was interesting. I found that I have adjusted in a lot of ways by becoming more ambidextrous. The most challenging part of the experiment was not having the use of both hands. I could not compile legibly at all with my right hand, and I found when mongerping through and through a magazine with my right hand I favorred to flip the normal way front to back. When I usually flip through a magazine using my left hand I prefer flipping from the back to front.It did give me an appreciation for the challenges faced by those who do not fit into what the society sees as normal. I felt I had a disability and it was challenging to do my normal everyday tasks, plus I got some strange looks from my family. I also learned that it is possible to adapt to new situations. Being a lefty my whole life I have been viewed as different from what is considered normal. Sure I can completely use extremely sharp scissors to cut paper, and I can barely use a knife to cut my food but I have never looked at this as a forbid thing, I have always felt it makes me special and unique.ConclusionIn closing a diverse workforce is quickly becoming what is normal for today. We must pass over becoming more aware and understanding of individuals who are not just now like us. Management must ad apt to these changes by realizing that there are many positive benefits to having a diverse work force and treat every employee as an individual with different strengths and talents. In order to successfully work in todays business world we all must be open minded and willing to accept our differences and develop an appreciation for a more diverse population.