As the global marketplace expands and skilled workers cross national boundaries for work, workplace diversity increases worldwide. There are many benefits to a diverse workplace. Different perspectives offer new insights, improve adaptability, and often result in higher productivity. But there are consequences to workplace diversity as well. Communication problems and resistance to change cause problems for companies that aren’t prepared.

Successful companies stay ahead of the game by creating policies that specifically address workplace diversity and create an open, inclusive environment. We’ve taken a closer look at the benefits and consequences of workplace diversity. Read on to learn what to expect from an increasingly diverse workforce, and what world-class companies do to prevent problems and improve their business with a diverse set of employees.

Benefits

• Multiple perspectives – A team of diverse employees has varied experiences and viewpoints. When employees are comfortable communicating their perspectives, it creates a larger pool of ideas for strategy, production, and marketing. Creative ideas better meet the needs of the company and improve service and products for customers.
• Expanded services – Every employee with language skills or understanding of another culture opens new markets. If you want to sell products or services in another country, an employee familiar with that language and culture will open doors for business and trade. Diverse skills and experiences help companies expand their services to a global community.
• Better adaptability – A team with varied backgrounds is essential for adapting to fluctuating markets and policy changes. Different talents and skills make it easier to meet customer expectations. This results in higher productivity, improved allocation of resources, and profits.

Consequences

Resistance to change – Unfortunately, many employees are resistant to change. If your company is just starting to diversify, anticipate some resistance from employees unwilling to accept the social and cultural changes in their environment. It’s important to address these issues quickly, before resistant employees silence good ideas or make others feel unwelcome.

Outdated policies – One of the greatest challenges for a recently diversified company is updating policies. Inclusive, welcoming policies that encourage communication are essential for diverse employees to succeed. Change policies wherever needed to welcome diverse perspectives and ideas, and customize them to your company’s needs.

Management – Every manager must enforce new policies and support diverse employees. Companies that don’t get team leaders on board with diversity initiatives miss out on many benefits. Implement leadership strategies that create a positive culture of diversity in every part of your operation.

Strategies

If you’re ready to diversify your workplace, start today. It’s never too early to prepare for success. Top global companies use these strategies to take full advantage of a diverse workforce, pushing their businesses to the highest level of success.

• Assess diversity first – A detailed employee satisfaction survey is a great way to find obstacles to diversity within your organization. It also clarifies which policies need changes. Determine the success of any changes you make by comparing current surveys to previous ones.
• Implement diversity with leadership and policies – Ensure every leader or manager is completely on board with policy changes and company culture ideals. Employees on every level take cues from their supervisors, so a positive attitude toward diversity starts at the top. Involve company leaders in planning for a diverse workplace, and train them extensively to use diversity to improve your company.
• Be inclusive – Work with leaders, managers, and other influential workers to create an inclusive company culture. Employ diverse workers at every level, including leadership roles. Encourage all employees to express their opinions and provide ideas for diversity initiatives. Finally, use diversity training to empower every employee to build a positive, inclusive company culture.

There are many benefits to a diverse workplace, but companies must prepare in advance for the success of diverse employees. Don’t wait to start initiatives that encourage diversity and a positive company culture. Prevent consequences and reap the benefits of a diverse workforce.

The Network Editorial Team