Diversity refers to the experience of human differences and commonalities, an experience which is increasingly becoming relevant to people’s daily lives in the 21st century.

Diversity is broader than affirmative action and is voluntary. While affirmative action and equal employment opportunity focus on employment practices, the concept of diversity extends to the work environment, including individual attitudes and behaviours.

Actions that promote diversity for staff are those that lead to a work environment that maximises the potential of all employees while acknowledging their unique contributions and differences. Diversity lets the organisation tap into the positive potential of diversity and transform this potential into a reality.

Many business and other organisations have already developed diversity management programmes with some success. Valuing differences makes the difference for success!

Benefits of diversity

    • Educating managers and staff on how to work effectively in a diverse environment prevents discrimination and promotes inclusiveness.
    • There is evidence that managing a diverse work force well can contribute to increased staff retention and productivity.
    • Diversity can enhance the organisation’s responsiveness to an increasingly diverse world of customers, improve relations with the surrounding community, increase the organisation’s ability to cope with change and expand the creativity of the organisation.
    • In addition to contributing to business goals, diversity can contribute to goals unique to the company or organisation.
    • Good management of a diverse work force can increase productivity and enhance an institution’s ability to maneuver in an increasingly complex and diverse environment.