Unit 8 – Chapter 5
Managing in a Multicultural Environment
The Increasing Diversity of the Workforce and the Environment
Diversity – Dissimilarities or differences among people due to age, gender, race, ethnicity,
religion, sexual orientation, socioeconomic background, education, experience, physical
appearance, disabilities/ capabilities and any other characteristic that is used to distinguish
between people.
Glass ceiling – A metaphor alluding to the invisible barriers that prevent minorities and
women from being promoted to top corporate positions.
People can be discriminated against because of their:
• Age
• Gender – It was found that women outperform males in skills such as motivating
others, promoting good communication, turning out high-quality work and being good
listeners.
• Race and Ethnicity – It is important to have a workforce that can bring together
different perspectives.
• Religion – it is important for organisations to be informed about different religious
practices and holidays as to not be ignorant to people’s beliefs.
• Capabilities/ Disabilities – important to educate all members of an organisation
about disabilities as to not offend one another.
• Socioeconomic Background – refers to social class and income-related factors.
• Sexual Orientation
• Other kinds of Diversity
Managing in a Multicultural Environment
The Increasing Diversity of the Workforce and the Environment
Diversity – Dissimilarities or differences among people due to age, gender, race, ethnicity,
religion, sexual orientation, socioeconomic background, education, experience, physical
appearance, disabilities/ capabilities and any other characteristic that is used to distinguish
between people.
Glass ceiling – A metaphor alluding to the invisible barriers that prevent minorities and
women from being promoted to top corporate positions.
People can be discriminated against because of their:
• Age
• Gender – It was found that women outperform males in skills such as motivating
others, promoting good communication, turning out high-quality work and being good
listeners.
• Race and Ethnicity – It is important to have a workforce that can bring together
different perspectives.
• Religion – it is important for organisations to be informed about different religious
practices and holidays as to not be ignorant to people’s beliefs.
• Capabilities/ Disabilities – important to educate all members of an organisation
about disabilities as to not offend one another.
• Socioeconomic Background – refers to social class and income-related factors.
• Sexual Orientation
• Other kinds of Diversity
