Workplace diversity: developing a win‐win‐win strategy

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose if this paper is to alert readers that successful application of workforce diversity only happens with proper evaluation and in‐depth guidance: by treating diversity as an end onto itself and not merely as a means toward an end.

Design/methodology/approach

This is a review paper, first commenting on common mistakes companies make in applying workforce diversity. It offers some attention points for implementing diversity in the right way, and reviews some implications for organizational learning strategies if they decide to take the here‐discussed approach to diversity.

Findings

The paper finds that diversity as a topic earns more attention today than it has ever received before, and the reasons are easily understandable: global migration is increasing; the internet is enabling communication on a worldwide scale; and business leaders are continuously in search for less expensive resources and lower wages to pay. All these trends result in progressively diversified workforces locally and internationally. Increasingly, companies allocate special room for diversity practices on their web sites. Yet, the application of workplace diversity does not always happen for the right reasons. Companies that apply diversity responsibly ensure larger, lasting, and happier customer bases, continuous reinvention through mutual learning and a more stable workforce with fewer turnovers.

Originality/value

This paper is of particular importance for human resource and other hiring officers and departments in the organization.

Citation

Marques, J. (2008), "Workplace diversity: developing a win‐win‐win strategy", Development and Learning in Organizations, Vol. 22 No. 5, pp. 5-8. https://doi.org/10.1108/14777280810896372