Question: For this week's topic I chose to answer the question, how does diversity affect the organization's work/life balance, and what ethical considerations exist that may drive the organization to be more work/life balanced?
Diversity in the workplace consists of having people from different races, cultural backgrounds, religions, and sexual orientation working harmoniously together and having mutual respect for each other's differences. When it comes to work/life balance, HR managers must be mindful of these differences and how they can impact individuals ability to work, a need for time off of work, or a special accommodation for religious reasons.
Sometimes these unique differences can be the very thing that an individual may identify themselves with or it can be what keeps them motivated. For instance, a person's background or pride in their heritage may be the one thing that inspires them to achieve their best. When employers don't celebrate or even recognize these differences, employees might feel undervalued or unworthy which can ultimately decrease their performance.
Having an inclusive culture allows everyone to feel that they are valued, respected, and have equal access to all organizational opportunities (DeCenzo, Robbins, & Verhulst, 2016). Also with the aging workforce, millennials are set to make up 40% of the workforce which means HR Managers must create or consider the following ethical considerations:
*Part-time
*Work-From-Home
*Flex Time
*Employee Involvement/Empowerment
Overall, it will continue to be a challenge for HR Managers to accommodate the rapid changes in the global economy as well as diversity within the workforce. It is essential to continue being trained and to offer diversity and inclusion trainings to all employees so when ethical decisions impacting work/life balance need to be made - everyone is on the same page. Besides, all ethical decisions should be made with integrity and the right intent.