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Corporate
Culture and Diversity
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Most people would agree that
cultural diversity in the workplace utilizes our country's skills
to its fullest, and contributes to our overall growth and prosperity. The reality of
the situation is that it hasn't happened and progress remains slow. While we are in
the midst of the longest period of economic growth this country has ever seen, the gap
between the "haves" and "have nots" continues to widen.
One of the reasons for this has been the lack of diversity in corporate America.
By not developing a diverse workforce from the top down, African, Hispanic (Latino), and
Asian Americans are unfairly relegated to lower-skilled, lower-pay positions and are not
able to fulfill their true potential. Many corporations have recognized that
diversity contributes to the bottom line by: making it easier to retain good
employees, lowering costs by developing skills in-house, and developing a reputation that
helps attract new employees. This is especially important with the economy doing so
well, and the demand for skilled labor at record levels.
If you are an African, Hispanic (Latino), or Asian American trying to advance your
career, working for a company that values workplace diversity is extremely
important. This will give you a good indication whether your employer will value
your contributions, grant you promotions, train you to take on more responsibility, and
pay you accordingly.
What is diversity? Here are some key indicators
that help provide a proper definition for diversity:
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Diversity at the Officer, Board of Director, and Senior management levels
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Diversity amongst the highest salaried employees in the company
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Diversity amongst the company's workforce as a whole
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Recruiting for new hires in Ethnic American publications
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Recruiting at Ethnic American cultural or professional events
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Membership in Ethnic American professional organizations
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Charitable contributions to Ethnic American organizations
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