Understanding Differences in a Business Setting, Essay Example

One of the greatest problems that exist in the world of managers and professionals, in today’s business settings, is that of institutionalized discrimination. Further, this points to a general lack of awareness around cultural, ethnic, and gender differences, which is ultimately a disservice to both individuals and companies (Harvey & Allard, 2012). In this ever-changing global market, diversity is a must have within an organization, as this has the power to affect the ability for the organization to prosper and keep a competitive advantage. Yet, it is not all about the bottom line; to make life more enjoyable, to learn more, and yes, to prosper, having awareness of our differences is crucial. This essay addresses the issue of discrimination from an organizational standpoint, and from a more personal standpoint as well. In accordance with the latter, what has been gained through the ball and sock experiment is addressed.

When discrimination is the workplace occurs, the business loses. Although this discussion focuses on how the corporation will lack in profitability, it must also be addressed at the level of the individual as well. Foremost, employees are not going to feel valued if they are being discriminated against; this will negatively impact the bottom line. Additionally, the embracing of diversity in an organization allows employees to bring forth their individual talents, thoughts, and ideas. This has the capacity to lend itself to overall corporate success (Reavis, 2011). Cynthia Reavis from Texas Instruments Inc. (2011) supports this notion with the idea that that diversity in the workplace goes even farther than people and differences. Seeking to acknowledge and use other’s diversity in thoughts, experiences, and perspectives can add greatly to any organization by bringing new thoughts and ideas. An organization that has the ability to recognize and utilize its diversity will undoubtedly maintain a competitive edge.

The other factor, one a more personal nature perhaps, is the fact that we can learn to appreciate the unique differences among us, ultimately creating a healthy and happier work environment (Harvey & Allard, 2012). In this sense, it is a bit less about the bottom line, although it does affect this in the long run. Leaning to appreciate diversity is more about learning to be open and welcoming people, having a chance to step into someone else’s shoes. This makes for a well-rounded person, and someone very pleasant to be around in a business setting. I personally learned more about what diversity means from the ball and sock experiment.

I found this experiment to be a challenge, and ultimately very disconcerting. I am right-handed person, and am clearly extremely dependent on using my right hand. I found it very difficult to do small tasks like brush my teeth or wash some dishes. Overall, I thought it was a wonderful exercise, in that it really gave me a good idea of what someone with a cultural, ethnic, or gender related difference from the “norm” must go through.

Through being a part of our class, reading our textbook, and doing this experiment, I have learned quite a bit. Especially in regards to understanding more about the role that managers and professionals can take in order to increase awareness around diversity. In the long run, this creates a more pleasant work environment, makes people more aware of themselves and other, and also contributes knowledge, which can truly serve to affect the bottom line as well. Without question, in our world of increasing globalization there is more diversity in the workplace than ever before. However, it is not just having diversity in the workplace that’s important, but it is how you treat it, and what you do with it that makes the difference.

References

Harvey, C. P., & Allard, J.M. (2012). Understanding and Managing Diversity, 5th Edition. Pearson.

Reavis, C.  (2011). Telecourse Guide for It’s Strictly Business from Texas Instruments Inc. Southwestern College.