Multicultural Diversity in the Workplace for COMM215 at University of Phoenix

Multicultural Diversity in the Workplace

COMM215

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        Immigration, civil rights and a growing global economy are just a few reasons for a company to take an interest in improving its approach to cultural diversity. A multicultural workforce can affect teamwork and communications within a large company. As more and more companies become influenced by multicultural workforces, management should pay attention to the needs of its employees. Each employee's diversity should be considered when the company decides to make changes in its functions, policies and products or services.

Cultural Work Ethics

        A multicultural organization, as described by Bailey W. Jackson and Evangelina Holvino is one that, "reflects the contributions and interests of diverse cultural and social groups in its mission, operations and product or service" and "includes the members of diverse cultural and social groups as full participants, especially in decisions that shape the organization." (Fall 1988. Vol. 9/2), p 14.).

Simply put, a multicultural organization will respect the opinions and feelings of each employee, regardless of race, religion, age, gender, physical appearance, or other discriminating factors. The individual diversity of the employees will lend itself to the greater success of the entire company.

        Understanding the business practices and work ethics of the different cultural and social groups in your company will help you to better integrate them into your business. It is management's responsibility to recognize these practices and incorporate them into the business plan of a company. Some examples of these practices include work hours, cultural practices, language barriers, conflict resolution, and religious beliefs.

        As Americans, we are tied to the stigma of an eight-hour workday and a forty-hour workweek. If we work past those constraints, we expect some additional compensation: overtime, bonuses or benefits. Federal regulations prescribe these work hours, along with required breaks and a minimum wage.