Question

according to the extract , it is only when leadership diversity and makes it an organisational proority, will its trye benefits be seen. based on this , critically discuss five organisational approaches to ge management of diversity

Answer 1

Companies have different approaches for their diversity programs. Some approaches have greater value and good business impact than the others. The approaches have their own objectives and methods of achievement.

Several approaches of diversity include:

1. Brand Image: This approach mainly creates a brand image of being a company that values the diversity of its employees. The main intention of this approach is to be viewed as a benchmark company when it comes to diversity programs. If customers, employees, vendors, suppliers, shareholders, general public believe the company is a diversity champion and hold the organization with high regard, then diversity program can be considered as a success. One has to find successful stories of diversity, share those stories and the organisation will be successful in creating the desired brand image.

2. Affirmative Action: This approach mainly focuses on creating a company that truly provides equal opportunities for people of diverse backgrounds and characteristics inorder to develop a sustainable business. The goal of this approach is to have a representative no of people in the key positions throughout the company to match tthe diverse demographics. The company has to provide affirmatively the opportunities for people of diversity regarding pay, promotions, supplier contracts and/or construction projects.

3. Culture of Acceptance: This approach is to create a company that values and appreciates the diverse nature of its workforce. The key to this approach is to get everyone to be aware of and accept these differences inorder to reduce conflicts, maximise performances and allow each person to reach his or her full potential by removing diversity barriers or conflict at workplace. Everyone in the organisation should become diversity conscious. It should remove the barriers that limit growth opportunities for certain people because of diversity issues.

4. Maximising the performance of all the employees:

The purpose of this approach is to maximize the performance of each of the employee by removing barriers that limit an individual's potential, regardless of whether those barriers are diversity issues or other discriminations. The intention is to raise the rpoductive output of each individual by understanding their unique differences and override whatever keeps the person from reaching his or her potential. This approach entails a mature and sophisticated approach in managing the business using proper management techniques.

5. Prioritize Communication: Organisations need to ensure that they effectively communicate with employees and the employees communicate well among each other. Policies, procedures, safety rules and other improtant info can be designed to overcome language and culture barriers by translating materials, using pictures and symbols wherever applicable.