Unity in diversity

When we speak about diversity people usually jump to the conclusion that we are referring to cultural diversity. Nothing could be further from the truth.

There are many forms of diversity such as race, religion, sexual orientation, upbringing, language, thought and background and all of these exist in the workplace. Diversity can refer to cultural groups, religious groups, political groups or people with a variety of different human qualities, values and principles all of which, when combined, make up the exclusive culture of a specific company.

Diversity simply refers to difference or variety. It is only when we consider the variety that exists and discuss the differences that we can bring about understanding and unity. It is in this area where many fail today particularly in a business context. Managers are not familiar with or used to dealing with such diversity and in many instances do not know how to deal with the diversity that surrounds them. Bringing about unity, while incorporating the diversity that exists is quite a challenge and requires a new approach by managers. There is a need to understand the diversity that exists while at the same time allowing for innovative thinking and open honest communication. It is this diversity that will lead to an inevitable change in culture and this change in culture itself will become a challenge for many managers.    

All organisations have a prevailing culture and most cultures are developed as a result of the variety that exists within the organisation. Diversity in itself leads to the formation of the organisational culture or it can contribute to a change in culture. The detection of the company culture is not easy. The company culture is indicated by, or reflected in, certain features of the company such as policies and procedures, employee composition, managerial philosophy and so on. Diversity and variety will be patterned by each major department having its own prevailing culture.

It is this diversity of culture that brings problems for management and that often results in organisational disharmony and a lack of unity. Diversity should in fact, if understood, lead to greater harmony and togetherness. There should be UNITY IN DIVERSITY.

Companies can adopt a number of strategies to try to harmonise the different cultures and create an environment where employees understand each other and the differences that exist. By addressing issues related to diversity while at the same time introducing measures to address diversity companies can bring about change and unity. Some areas that need to be considered and addressed include:

 

Des Squire (Managing Member) AMSI and Associates cc – [email protected] - 0828009057