Question

12.1     How is the management of diversity different than affirmative action?

12.2     What are the three approaches to the management of diversity and how do they differ?

Answer 1

12.1 Both terms have almost same objective, ie. to create equal opportunity for all in the workplace. Diversity and affirmative action each broaden their own concept of equal employment opportunity in their own ways.

Diversity is more of inclusive concept which majorly incorporates various cultures, religions, sexual orientation, status of economy etc.They compliment each other but has different goals altogether.While affirmative action plan is to take positive steps well in advance an putting forwarded as action item for an organisation in a much more structured way by taking positive steps to get individuals in an organisation.

12.2 The major three approaches are

1. Ensure policies are purely performance based: This helps in establishing proper policies which every employees can follow which reduce the ambiguity .
2. Create team building environment: This fosters relationship and also encourages mutual connections which will eventually increase the strenght of diversity and also productivity of the organisation.
3. Open communication environment.: This ensure equal rights for everyone to express themself regarding their opinion, concerns etc .