Value_of_Diversity_in_Work_Place_Paper

1 Value of Diversity in Work place Paper 2 Value of Diversity in Work place Paper Abstract Workplace diversity is a people issue, focused on the differences and similarities that people bring to an organization. It is usually defined broadly to include dimensions beyond those specified legally in equal opportunity and affirmative action non-discrimination statutes." (Woods, 2001). In this paper I will explore how gender, age, race, ethnicity and religion affect individuals in the workplace and the work environment. I will also discuss the importance of a having a culturally diverse workforce.  3 Value of Diversity in Work place Paper "The research on working women in general tells us that there are very few differences between men and women that affect job performance. However, women are reported to be more conforming and to have lower expectations of success than men do. And women's absenteeism rates tend to be higher than those of men."(Schermerhorn, Hunt, & Osborn, 2005). The explanation for women being more conforming in the workplace is rooted in history. When women joined the workforce, they were paid less than men, and this practice still continues. Women do not feel secure in the workforce because they are treated dissimilarly, therefore, causing women to be more conforming. Women often do not want to draw attention to themselves because they desire to stay employed. Finding a sense of balance between work and family life is a struggle many women face. Some women find that working full-time while raising a family is not cost effective, so they opt for part-time work, or to not work until their children are of school age. Women's absenteeism will always be slightly hirer because they can give birth. A woman working is not always cost-effective, because of the high costs of child care, and women are not usually the primary financial provider. Women's absenteeism is higher than men but not because women are any less dedicated; it is because they are ordinarily the primary caregiver. This could change as more men are becoming primary caregivers and the gap between men and women's salary is closing. 4 Value of Diversity in Work place Paper If a woman chooses not to have children, society speculates why, while men would not be questioned. According to society a woman should not focus only on her family or only on her career; she has to have both. Gender plays a big role in workplace; hopefully, as society matures stereotypes will be dismissed and the family unit will encompass less rigid roles. “Older workers are susceptible to being stereotyped as inflexible and undesirable in other ways. In some cases, workers as young as age 40 are considered to be 'old' and complain that their experience and skills are no longer valued."(Schermerhorn, Hunt, & Osborn, 2005). Being an older employee carries stereotypes that are unwarranted. It is unproductive to judge someone based on his or her age because each person is unique. Many older employees are just as knowledgeable as young college graduates because they have experience. Experience is what people rely on when making choices or decisions, and experience is valuable characteristic in the workplace. Having varied ages in the workplace offers a well-rounded workforce and the finest of worlds. Younger employees can share their knowledge regarding the latest information and methods while older employees can offer experience and skill. This type of mindset goes both ways; older employees sometimes stereotype younger employees as stupid because they have less experience. An employer who desires a constructive workplace needs to ensure the 5 Value of Diversity in Work place Paper employees have the mindset that age is only a number and does not dictate a person's ability. "Consistent with some current literature, we use the term "racial and ethnic groups" to reflect the broad spectrum of employees of differing ethnicities or races who make up an ever-increasing portion of the new workforce."(Schermerhorn, Hunt, & Osborn, 2005). Race and ethnicity have been barriers in the workplace for several years. Frequently people are judged and stereotyped in reference to their race and ethnicity. Judging people before they know each other is not productive in any manner, including the workplace. When employees judge coworkers, it results in tension, stress, poor communication, and an inefficient workplace. Unproductive staff will negatively affect the financial wellbeing of an organization. Open-minded employers are very important, and it is crucial for the employer to hire open minded employees. A diverse workforce can share a variety of perspectives and allows the workplace to be more efficient. Religion plays a large function in many peoples' lives. Religion gives people guidance, belief in a higher power, a sense of community, and values. "Accommodating employees' religious beliefs, whether they are strict and full of rituals or atheistic, is a basic precept of the respectful workplace." Employees who are respected are likely to be more productive, foster a healthy workplace, and be more flexible. Being religious is not always an easy feat, because 6 Value of Diversity in Work place Paper some people pass judgment, and make generalizations. Respect is the foundation of a healthy workplace. "The concept of managing diversity in organizations emphasizes appreciation of differences in creating a setting where everyone feels valued and accepted."(VAULT, 2008). Age, gender, religion, race, and ethnicity can negatively affect the workplace only if the employer allows it. If the employer desires a productive and healthy workplace; the employer must embrace diversity and band hatred. Hatred spreads like a disease, and infects everything it comes in contact with. Employees who feel unappreciated, judged, and mistreated will not foster a productive and healthy workplace. Diversity in the workplace is a gift and a tool for success. Diversity allows many different types of people to bring their perspectives to the table offering a well rounded view. A healthy diverse work environment will foster success, dedication, hard working employees, and a star organization. 7 Value of Diversity in Work place Paper Reference Ebook Collection: Schaefer,R.T. (2006). Sociology: A brief introduction (6th ed.) Boston: McGraw-Hill Scherme rhorn, John R., Hunt, James G., & Osborn, Richard N. (2005). Organizational Behavior (9th ed.). , : John Wiley & Sons, Inc.