In many countries, especially in America, there are a lot of people of different nationality, religion, race, color, and sexual orientation, who have to work in order to make a living. Moreover, considering most top Fortune 500
companies, they employ “all inclusive workforce” (Birritteri, 2005). Additionally, it is clear that when companies hire
diverse labour force, they want their customers to speak highly of them. However, what are other benefits that such companies can get? For instance, Daborah Dagit, executive director of the Diversity & Work Environment, turning to the book “The Medici Effect” by Frans Johansson, expressed the following opinion in regard of the advantages of diverse labour force: “The book explains that when there are a variety of different ideas from different people, you find linkages where significant innovation occurs. Where you have groups of people who think similarly, there is only incremental change” (Birritteri, 2005). Furthermore, it is confirmed that even if a company gains significant profits, but is accused of treating minority groups with disrespect, it will affect its stock price negatively (Birritteri, 2005). Besides, Magda Yrizarry, vice president employed with Verizon Communications told that they even cooperate with such organizations as the National Black MBA Association, the National Society of Hispanic MBA''s, and the National Association of Asian American Professionals in order to hire skilled people who will contribute to the overall success of a company (Birritteri, 2005). In addition,
General Mills, that holds a very big market share in the food industry of not only United States but also other countries of the world, pays much attention to intercultural issues within a company: “We value the many ways in which people may differ,
whether it''s gender, race, nationality, education, sexual orientation, religion, lifestyle or political persuasion. We feel strongly that the things that make us unique as individuals also make us more valuable. Every day, we see the power of different viewpoints at work” (Corporate Social Responsibility Report, 2006). Furthermore, in 2005 Working Mother magazine included General Mills in the list of eight companies for their work at employing women of color (General Mills Named One of the Nation''s Best Companies for Women of Color by Working Mother Magazine). In conclusion, the way a company deals with diverse work force influences both its goodwill and sales level significantly. Now I would like to turn to the discussion of the organizational effectiveness and efficiency.
Bibliography
Birritteri, A. (2005, November 1). Workplace Diversity: Realizing the Benefits of
an All-Inclusive Employee Base. Retrieved March 2, 2007, from
AllBusiness.
http://www.allbusiness.com/marketing-advertising/strategic-marketing/1015142-4.html
Corporate Social Responsibility Report 2006 (2006). Retrieved March 2, 2007,
from
General Mills. Web site:
http://www.generalmills.com/corporate/commitment/2006_CSR.pdf
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