Blend diversity for greater creative inputs

top executives must recognise that programmes for integrating diversity must be aligned with business goals, as they will change the way a company functions.

To survive in today's competitive business arena, more employers are adopting fair employment practices to attract talent. This creates a diverse workforce with different values and beliefs. If not well managed, this can create tensions among staff and affect their performance and morale. On the other hand, if handled effectively, a diverse workforce can produce amazing results for the organisation.

However, managing diversity goes beyond accommodating people of different ethnicities, genders or even values. It is about acknowledging distinctive values and these beliefs are invaluable to the organisation. It

creates an inclusive environment that engages the varied workforce and treats every employee fairly.

Promoting diversity requires a lot of planning. If not, chances are any diversity plan will not take off and it could end up costing the organisation more than it should.

Like any other strategy, a diversity programme needs the support of the top management. The C-suite executives - CEOs and so on - must recognise that the programme must be aligned with business goals and activities. It is a decision that will change how the company functions.

To prepare the ground for such a programme, the company must promote a long-term view that supports diversity from rank and file to senior management. This could be in the form of lunches and company outings where employees get to know one another. This promotes intercultural communication among staff and reduces the possibility of confrontation out of miscommunication. Training must also be provided to all managers.

While the costs may seem to surpass immediate gains, engaging a diverse workforce does have its long-term benefits. An inclusive environment with diverse talents allows employees to state their views and be themselves. Research has proven a diverse workforce encourages creativity. When it comes to performing out-of-the-ordinary tasks, the diverse pool of talents tends to outshine a group that is made up of similar talents. Indirectly, it encourages critical analysis.

An inclusive environment promotes goodwill among the diverse employees. When employees are happy, the corporate culture will improve and customers will most likely be well taken care of. In the long run, the positive vibes will attract the best talent and develop the company's brand as an employer of choice.

Josh Goh is corporate services manager at GSI Executive Search.

Visit www.gsiconsultants.com

At a glance

-- Diversity-integration programmes must aim at promoting intercultural communication among all staff. 

-- This reduces the possibility of conflict arising out of miscommunication. Training must also be provided to all managers.