Diversity is defined as the differences in people. With a population of more than 7 billion unique people, diversity is inevitable in any social setting. The focus is, however, on how to make diversity a value especially in the workplace. As workplaces embrace the inevitable differences between people, this has to be of value to team success.
Diversity is based on some basic principles. The first one is that no one should be left behind instead everyone should be included and engaged. Diversity becomes of value if it is synergetic. People need to work together to achieve a common good. It is the responsibility of everyone to ensure diversity in the workplace. However, diversity is easier said than done. In essence, it should be evident in all levels of the organization.
Liswood identifies some of the perceived problems with diversity. She calls on leaders to rise above the challenges and problems faced with the diversity. Essentially, diversity is regarded as an annoyance and a lowering of standards. Other people look at diversity as something that gives advantages to minority groups simply because of the need to embrace it.
However, diversity is not a problem. Liswood notes that each person has unconscious beliefs about themselves and others. This fact is effectively illustrated by the metaphor of Noah’s ark.
Liswood, therefore, encourages leaders as well as employees to go beyond diversity. It is the reality that the different perceptions and beliefs people hold affect their actions. However, if leaders and employees get a proper perspective of their perception, a lot is likely to fall into place. Diversity is a critical determinant for the success.
