What Are the Benefits of Diversity Training?

Diversity training teaches appreciation of differences of race, culture, gender and sexual orientation

Diversity training is sometimes a controversial topic in workplaces. It has from time to time become associated with quota filling, or with lower standards. But, in fact, a properly implemented and consistent diversity training program offers employers many benefits. As the demographics of the labor force change, it’s becoming an essential part of the human resources paradigm.

Enhanced Productivity

If all employees feel valued, and harassment and conflict in the workplace have been minimized, workers are freed up to turn their energies to the job at hand. Diversity training enhances team building, and helps employees understand how to support one another as they work to a common end. All of these factors contribute to greater productivity in the workplace. Mark Parham of Culture Consulting says, “[S]ince all human beings are different, it follows that an organization which is not crippled by those differences, is in fact strengthened by them.”

Lower Employee Turnover

A workplace that has a poor understanding of diversity issues is one in which many employees may not thrive, and may experience poor working conditions and relationships. This in turn may prompt them to look for employment elsewhere. Few companies can afford to throw away talent in this manner. Avoiding turnover costs is among the benefits of diversity training. Accordingly, an organization that understands and accommodates differences will have a marketplace advantage in recruiting and retaining key staff.

Better Client Relationships

A diverse workplace, and one where diversity is valued, is better equipped to serve and represent a diverse client base, according to author and diversity trainer Simma Lieberman. Diversity training ensures that all employees, regardless of their own cultural or racial background, are prepared to relate to many different types of clients. It also cuts down on misunderstandings that may result in wasted time or money, or may alienate potential customers.

Organizational Culture

Diversity issues can arise regardless of an organization's make up. Hence, diversity is a matter of organizational culture, advises Culture Consulting Inc. Members of the organization must be prepared to hear ideas and suggestions with which they disagree, and discuss them in a rational and civil fashion. The trick, Culture Consulting says, is to create an organizational culture that has good habits in how people treat one another - and then reinforce these habits.

References

• Diversity Builder: Diversity Training in the Workplace
• Employee Development Solutions: Can Diversity Training Really Help?
• Simma Lieberman Associates: Diversity Benefits Organizations and Communities