The Importance of Understanding Cultural, Ethnic and Gender Differences by Managers and Professionals in the Business Setting
Over the past two decades, diversity in the workforce has been a necessity for the success of organizations. Job applicants are a considerable mix of different ethnic groups, religion, gender, and age. Large and small businesses are constantly competing in the global environment, therefore demanding more strategies to survive in the market world. Diversity is crucial in today’s global market as companies are expanding their business overseas and there is constant immigration into the United States.
It is important for managers, and professionals to understand cultural, ethnic, and gender differences in a business setting to motivate employee’s commitment and loyalty to the company. It will also improve the quality of communication between employees and managers, enhance collaboration among employees, and decrease costly employee turnover. Kenyon, (2005), cited, according to Kersten (2000), estimate of the cost of replacing an employee varies, but a good rule of thumb is that replacing an employee cost approximately four times that workers salary, between recruiting to training. Employee retention and satisfaction can be enhanced by providing certain accommodations. Since a large part of the workforce, are single mothers and fathers, some companies are providing onsite daycare. Moreover, an organization will get more respect and attract more attention from the general population, including employees; by hiring people with disability of any race or gender. In this case, positions posted are those for which they can provide accommodations for special
References: Kenyon, A., (2005). The Importance of Diversity (part 2). We Lead Online Magazine. Retrieved from http://www.leadingtoday.org Maxwell, J. C., (1993).Developing the Leader Within You. Nashville, Tennessee: Thomas Nelson Inc. Publishers.