Dimensions of Human

Diversity
Session 10
Service Culture

1
Introduction

• to the reality of global human diversity and its

dimensions.
• diversity refers to the differences in each and
every human individual on which we may have little
or no control
• may be based on personality, group, and even
global dimensional aspects.
• acquire a certain degree of “awareness” or
sensitivity of human diversity that exists globally to
effectively relate with people of diverse
backgrounds.
Objectives

• Understand the various

dimensions of human diversity
and learn to develop an openness
and sensitivity to various human
differences
• Develop an appreciation of various
global diversity issues and
• Nurture an accommodating and
empathic perspective of human
differences and limitations in the
workplace
What is Diversity?

Diversity refers to individual characteristics over

which an individual has little or no control, such as
biologically-determined characteristics including
race, sex, age, certain physical attributes, as well
as the family and society into which he or she is
born.
Dimension of Diversity

5
Benefits of Diversity

• Full utilization of the organization’s human resources

• Reduced interpersonal conflict among employees of all

backgrounds as cultural competence increases

• Enhanced work relationships based on mutual respect and

along with increased knowledge of multicultural issues
Benefits of Diversity

• Shared organizational vision and increased

commitment

• Greater innovation and flexibility as more

employees participate in decision-making and
problem-solving teams

• Better and more creative problem-solving

• Improved productivity as less energy is spent

managing interpersonal conflict/cultural clashes
Business Culture

In a business environment, cultural competence

multiplies the listed benefits.

Improved levels of cultural awareness help countries

and organizations looking at global competition to
view the perceived cultural divide as opportunities.
To leverage the qualities that make each one of us
unique can only work for the greater good.
Equality & Diversity Statements

Equality
•Refers to the creation of a “fairer society” that
welcomes participation and provides an
opportunity for people to reach their full potential

Diversity
•Speaks of differences
Equality & Diversity Statements (cont)

To demonstrate equality and diversity actively and

conscientiously means living the commitment to
empower everyone who is part of the organization.

It also means advocating a revamp of potentially

discriminating constructs surrounding gender issues,
sexual orientation or preference, creed, race and
others.
Equality & Diversity Statements (cont)

“The Independent Safeguarding Authority (ISA) is committed to

promoting equality and diversity in the decisions we make, as an
employer, and through our partnerships. Our vision for equality and
diversity is to create an environment where:
 
· everyone who comes into contact with us feels they have been treated
fairly, with dignity, and with respect for their personal circumstances; and
 
· all employees feel empowered to carry out their role and supported in
achieving their potential.
 
We have legal responsibilities relating to equality, but we see these as
the minimum standard to be achieved. We take action to exceed these
minimum standards where it is considered appropriate and proportionate
to do so.”
 
 
 
Source: http://www.isa.homeoffice.gov.uk/default.aspx?page=417
Did you . . .

• Understand the various

dimensions of human diversity
and learn to develop an openness
and sensitivity to various human
differences
• Develop an appreciation of various
global diversity issues and
• Nurture an accommodating and
empathic perspective of human
differences and limitations in the
workplace