Embracing diversity

Embracing

Diversity

August 4th, 2012

3

What is Diversity?

Diversity is defined as being composed of differing elements and qualities.

4

A Word From the Wise

“Diversity has been written into the DNA of American life; any institution that lacks a rainbow array has come to seem diminished, if not diseased.”

-Joe Klein, Journalist for The New Yorker

5

Why Does Diversity Matter?

Diverse workplaces are better equipped to work efficiently and address changing markets.

Problem solving can be enhanced as a result of the blending of different perspectives brought to the table

Diversity is about empowering people by capitalizing on the strengths of each individual employee

6

John C. Maxwell, Writer

“The Law of Magnetism”

“People attract – and are attracted to – others of similar background. This law of magnetism is so strong that companies that value diversity have to fight against it.”

With the help of both executives and employees diversity can be embraced

7

The Evolution of Diversity

• Diversity has evolved into much more than just equal opportunity but has evolved into a competitive advantage.

• There has been a shift from training employees to fit into a diverse workplace to creating a workplace conducive to diverse employees.

• It is impossible to be diverse, if the acceptance of change is not taking place.

8

Lets Not Complicate Diversity

“ Diversity: the art of thinking independently together”

-Malcolm Forbes

Globalization and the changing faces of both customers and workers will represent an even more diverse mix.

Combining these individual thoughts will produce a more efficient and well rounded response to any problem.

9

In Closing

“If we cannot end our differences, we can at least make the world safe for diversity”

-John F. Kennedy, Former President

There will always be differences between people its just a matter of learning to embrace them.