Social Diversity and Business Ethics - Research Paper Example

Social Diversity and Business Ethics Social diversity is defined as differences in culture, creed, race, gender, age, and many other characteristics.Business ethics are the guiding principles that any organization strives for to acquire the loyalty and trust of customers and employees. Managing diversity means working beyond legal obligations. Workplace diversity has several benefits such as greater teamwork, outside-the-box thinking enhancing creativity, increased adaptability at the work processes.

Stevens et al. (2006) argue that many organizations have successfully implemented all-inclusive multiculturalism (AIM) diversity initiatives and policies. Diversity approach forces organizations to implement changes at the structural level taking into consideration all inclusive approach. IBM used this approach to attract and enhance retention of employees and in developing deeper understanding of major markets. Diversity in workforce has impacted several corporate companies such as PepsiCo in enhancing their revenue.

PepsiCo formed different social identity groups that helped promote its businesses.Obstacles in promoting diversity at workplaces can be described as per the following.Resistance to ChangeThis is the most widely observed human tendency– not to accept change in social and cultural makeup at workplaces (Stevens, p. 117).Communication and LanguageLanguage, perception and cultural barriers work as huge obstacles in promoting diversity among the working group (Stevens, p. 125).Implementing and Managing Diversity in Workplace This is a challenging task experienced by HR department in most organizations.

It is necessary to have a strategy to create a culture of diversity across all functions and department of the organization. ReferenceStevens F. G.; Plaut, V. C., Sanchez-Burks, J. (2008). Unlocking the Benefits of Diversity. The Journal of Applied Behavioral Science, Vol. 44 No. 1, March, p.116-133 (Also available at http://www.law.berkeley.edu/files/Stevens_Plaut_Sanchez-Burks_2008.pdf Retrieved September 27, 2012).