Human resources are critical to any business enterprise. Information reported in WORKFORCE 2000 suggests that we need to put an increased and continuing emphasis on nurturing these resources. According to the report, by the year 2000 our workforce "will grow more slowly than at any other time since the 1930s." The years of lower birth rates following the baby boom will also mean a shrinking pool of younger workers. In a smaller, culturally diverse labor market, business must put an increased effort into attracting the best people and maximizing their potential.
Many of the nation's largest corporations are doing just that. Under a variety of programs generally referred to as Managing Diversity, they are seeking to promote better understanding and communication between employees and managers and between employees and customers reflecting the cultural diversity of our society. Their experience has shown that managing diversity can offer several benefits.
The ability to recruit and retain the best of today's labor pool.
Managers with a high degree of sensitivity toward people with different backgrounds, and an awareness of how personal biases can distort judgment, are better able to communicate with and assess the capabilities of job candidates.
Increased innovation and better problem solving.
Groups composed of people from different backgrounds usually generate a greater variety of perspectives and ideas than groups that are more homogenous.
A competitive edge in the marketplace.
In our consumer-oriented economy, a company's customer base is likely to reflect the cultural diversity of our society. A company whose management and customer service people reflect that diversity is well-positioned to understand and meet the needs of its marketplace.
Increased motivation and performance.
When people feel valued, their motivation and commitment increases. This is especially true when a company's approach to managing diversity includes providing opportunities for growth and advancement to those who have historically been denied access.
Please respond to the questions below.
1. How can we deal with cultural differences in a way that makes it more comfortable for use to discuss them?
2. What does it mean to be "American?" Is this idea changing as our society absorbs more people from different cultures?
3. People who are suddenly plunged into an unfamiliar cultural setting generally react either by blending in, withdrawing or becoming angry. Have you ever reacted in any of these ways to a foreign setting or situation? If so, what influenced you to react this way? Were you able to overcome your reaction? How?
4. Identify the common cultural barriers that may hinder communication and limit personal and organizational effectiveness.