Diversity in the Workplace

Paper Summary:

This paper explains that it is much simpler to establish a culture of tolerance and diversity in a small business than in a larger business because there is no large hierarchy of managers and channels through which such changes need to move. The author points out that the interpersonal relationships, including management and subordinates, within smaller firms are closer and more trusting, which is important to creating an accepting workplace culture for diversity and individual differences. The paper states that, through leadership and management, the small to medium business owner can minimize bias to create true employee diversity, which has always been the American ideal and is good for business.

Table of Contents:
Understanding Diversity: The Small to Medium Business
Culture
Individual Differences
Race and Religion
Personality
The Quest for Equality (within Organizations)
Trust, Respect, Equality = Problem Solving
Managing Diversity and Individual Differences in the New Millennium
Minimizing Bias

From the Paper:

"Minority employees working in small to medium businesses can contribute in many valuable ways if there is mutual trust and respect. The contribution of such employees may lead to valuable expansion opportunities for the company and in turn bring individual promotion opportunities for the employees themselves. Furthermore, such performance in an environment of trust and respect may also lead to enhanced performance from colleagues, regardless of racial or religious differences. This can then lead to the ultimate equality that is the ultimate American ideal."

Sample of Sources Used:

• Diverse Strategies, Inc. (2004). "Corporate Culture and Diversity". EthnicMajority.com
• Hartenian, Linda S. (2000, Dec.). "Cultural Diversity in small business: implications for firm performance". Journal of Developmental Entrepreneurship. Online Database: FindArticles.com
• HR Magazine (2005, Feb.). "Making Diversity Work: 7 steps for defeating bias in the workplace". Online Database: FindArticles.com
• Lockwood, Nancy R. (2005, Jun). "Workplace Diversity: Leveraging the power of difference for competitive advantage". HR Magazine. Online Database: FindArticles.com.
• Misner, Ivan. (2006, July 24). "Get the Right Networking Mind-Set and Skill Set". Entrepreneur.com. http://www.entrepreneur.com/marketing/marketingideas/networkingcolumnistivanmisner/article159496.html

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