Work force diversity

Workforce Diversity is an immense and complex topic - from what drives companies to be more inclusive - to the programs, policies and practices that are needed to make that happen effectively. As we enter the 21^st century, workforce diversity has become an essential business concern. In the so-called information age, the greatest assets of most companies are now on two feet (or a set of wheels).

Undeniably, there is a talent war raging. No company can afford to unnecessarily restrict its ability to attract and retain the very best employees available. Because many of the beneficiaries of good diversity practices are from groups of people that are “disadvantaged” in our communities, there is certainly good reason to consider workforce diversity as an exercise in good corporate responsibility.

By diversifying our workforces, we can give individuals the “break” they need to earn a living and achieve their dreams. Many groups of people who have been excluded from workplaces are consequently reliant on tax-supported social service programs. Diversifying the workforce, particularly through initiatives like welfare-to-work, can effectively turn tax users into taxpayers.

The changing demographics in the workforce, that were heralded a decade ago, are now upon us. Today’s labor pool is dramatically different from in the past. No longer dominated by a homogenous group of white males, available talent is now overwhelmingly represented by people from a vast array of backgrounds and life experiences.