Diversity in the Workforce

What do we mean when we speak of diversity? The Human Resources & Equal Opportunity Office offers one definition:

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“Diversity refers to human qualities that are different from our own and those of groups to which we belong; but that are manifested in other individuals and groups. Dimensions of diversity include but are not limited to: age, ethnicity, gender, physical abilities or qualities, race, sexual orientation, educational background, geographic location, income, marital status, military experience, parental status, religious beliefs, work experience, and job classification.”

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Diversity in the workforce as a concept focuses on a broader set of qualities than race or gender. In the context of a multicultural, diverse workforce, valuing diversity means creating a workplace that respects and includes differences, recognizing the unique contributions that individuals with many types of backgrounds can make, and create a work environment that maximizes the potential of all employees.

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Diversity in the Workforce – A Necessity

Most people would agree that diversity in the workforce contributes to the overall growth and prosperity of any organization. Diversity in the workforce is a necessity today and makes smart business sense. National studies show that over the next ten years more than half of the entering workforce will have a minority background.

We take into account the work experience, education and human qualities that each individual brings to the workplace when we search for tomorrow’s leaders today.

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Diversity in the Workforce – Related Links

Women in the Food Industry (by McKinsey & Company)

Multicultural Foodservice & Hospitality Alliance (MFHA)

Women’s Foodservice Forum (WFF)