How Diversity can help the bottom Line of a Company

Collaborative Work Force

Diversity in your work force can contribute to your bottom line. Many companies provide
diversity training as a starting point for achieving workplace diversity. In addition to formal
training, leadership modeling behavior is an effective way to understand diversity. Encouraging
work force collaboration through mutual respect for colleagues, without regard to culture, work
style or ethnicity is another way to foster appreciation for diversity. A collaborative work force
can result in a more productive workplace, which in turn, translates to greater organizational
success.

Solid Business Reputation

When your business demonstrates an appreciation within the workplace, your reputation in the
business community can improve. If your business goals include becoming an "employer of
choice," you may experience a more diverse pool of applicants who can bring a great deal of
talent to your organization. Your company may also be viewed by stakeholders and other
professionals as an organization that values integrity and ethical business practices. Business
consultant Paul Taaffe of Hill & Knowlton states: "Reputation matters, and the reputation of
the company is based on far more than just its financial performance and the quality of its
products and services." A solid business reputation is another advantage of workplace diversity
that can improve your standing as an industry leader.

Increased Customer Base

Workplace diversity can affect your organization's global appeal and expand your customer base
by virtue of your work force talent. In the university's Mission, Vision & Value statement,
the University of Pennsylvania's Purchasing Services notes one its values as: "Workplace
diversity to embrace various backgrounds and perspectives in our work force so we can best
serve our broad customer base." If your business objective is globalization, a diverse work force
can help you achieve that goal.