Why is diversity important in the work environment What can organizations do to encourage diversity How is HRM involved in the area of diversity Workforce diversity is defined as the varied personal characteristics that make the workforce heterogenous DiCenzo Robbins p 12 This is important because to create a happy and satisfied organization the organization must honor workforce diversity concepts This is especially important because of the increased multiculturation that many organizations are experiencing DiCenzo Robbins p 14 An example of workplace diversity is the different cultures that work within an organization I worked for a LaQuinta for a short period of time as a housekeeper During that time the primary cultures were the Caucausians and the Hmongs In a few short months I learned quite a bit about the Hmong culture because the two groups were able to accept their diversity and talk about it openly However after the LaQuinta I went to work at a Park Plaza in the same city The two primary groups were Caucausians and Mexicans The organization did not properly integrate the two groups and they were often at the point of open hostility to each other This creates a poor work environment and does not boost morale There are many things an organization can do to encourage diversity including diversity knowlege exercises increasing motivational programs and helping the multicultural groups to understand each other Creating open bridges of communication between the groups increases the liklihood that they will begin to integrate of their own accord HRM is involved in this by creating these channels Response 2 I have always been one to think that diversity is what makes the world go around Diversity is important especially in business Diversity generates many different ideas in the business world Diversity is described as the similarities and differences among employees in terms of age cultural background physical abilities and disabilities race religion sex and sexual orientation Companies need to make sure that discrimination is taken seriously and the best way to do this is to create a specific role This role could consist of an equal opportunities officer To encourage respect and diversity within a company focus on the things that unite people in the company The encouragement of diversity begins with trying to understand differences which is important in any business situation After employees and team members develop an appreciation for the things which they have in common their natural sense of humanity will drive them towards respecting one another Often when people think of encouraging respect and diversity within an organization there is a significant emphasis on diversity of race sex color and other factors However few people consider importance of the talent diversity in an organization However increasing people to respect one another s diverse talents can help to build a stronger sense of unity and teamwork within your organization A great approach to begin cultivating this kind of respect and diversity in an organization is to start giving recognition for the people who perform tasks which otherwise would go unnoticed