Despite the benefits of diversity, some have described it as a “double-edge sword.” Explain what some benefits of diversity in an organization are. Also, explain what issues diversity a leader may encounter.
Diversity in an organization is an intentional act where a business firm hires a workforce that comprises people with different races, ages, orientations, gender, education, ethnicities, and other attributes. Diversity in the workstation leads to several benefits, including those from an external and internal perspective.
Diversity in the workplace increases creativity and innovation among employees. This shows the importance of exposing people to experiences with a wide range of world views and perspectives. A combination of these perspectives brings about new ideas in an organization, thus encouraging a broader range of skills. It also enhances the ability to have a wide set of strategies on how to address specific challenges. Besides, when a company employs more diverse workers from various backgrounds, these employees a better role in increasing profits and sales for the organization. This comes as a result of and mixed language among employees and the high levels of productivities that lead to successful international business trends.
However, communication and language barriers are among the utmost challenges that a leader might encounter in a diverse working environment. With international diversity, several languages might be spoken within the organization that causes inaccurate communication. The varied viewpoints and communication during discussions might interfere with efficient ways to make decisions, and the way conflicts are resolved. Thus a leader finds it more difficult to resolve such issues since employees encounter difficult times in accepting each other perspectives.
In conclusion, organizations need to make efforts to develop a diverse range of individuals when planning to hire a new group of employees. Such an organization will benefit a lot from this business strategy. However, companies should also be aware of the challenges that come across as a result of embracing diversity in the workforce. They should as well put in place strategies to be used in addressing these issues for the benefit of the organization.