The 3 Benefits of Workplace Diversity

Workplace diversity is important. A culture of sameness, while initially comfortable will soon enough turn an organization stagnant.

Diversity can give us a rude shock in that, we finally learn that we are all not born equal, we have had different experiences growing up and continue to have different experiences because we are all not the same. These shared experiences are what make an organization work better.

So how does workplace diversity make your organization better?

Diversity promotes innovation

A diverse organization containing people from different races, backgrounds, genders, different mindsets will obviously bring different ideas to the table. On the other hand, an organization that has people of the same race, with the same outlook, same values, etc are not going to do much in terms of innovation.

Diversity means better talent

If you are sticking to hiring one specific demographic in the market, then you are really limiting yourself. You are also losing out on the some of the best and brightest minds simply because they don’t fit the bill with regards to you would like to hire. Once you become open to the idea of diversity, you will find that you will attract a diverse set of talents. Also, people are more willing to work at organizations where they can see a diverse set of people.

Diversity means increased sensitivity

It’s easy to forget that all of us are not made equal when you spend most of the time with people who are similar to you. But when you are a part of a diverse workplace, you realize the world does not work on the principle of ‘one size fits all ‘. That is probably one of the most dangerous assumptions an organization can make.

In a nutshell, workplace diversity is good for an organization. However, it  is also important to note that you cannot hire people just to fit your diversity quotient. People are not props and you are wasting resources. Hiring with diversity in mind means not discriminating against potential employees and not letting prejudices dictate who gets the job or does not.

How do you think we can improve diversity in the workplace? Share your thoughts in the comments section below!