Just as a sharp investor would diversify his investment portfolio, it pays for employers to diversify their workforce to achieve growth.
Over the years, the work environment has evolved, as organisational structures, technology and markets have changed. In the past, many companies used to be made up of staff with similar backgrounds, however, employees now come from a range of backgrounds, with different skill sets.
Reasons For Diversity
Below are reasons for businesses to diversify their workforce:
1. Increased talent pool
With the advancement of technology and greater access to higher education, persons with disabilities are much more equipped and capable today. Overlooking such talent and expertise can mean missed opportunities for the employer.
2. Alternative perspectives
Due to their life experiences, many persons with disabilities are adept at problem-solving. This can help businesses discover alternative solutions and improve customer satisfaction.
3. Competitive edge
A diverse workforce reflects the reality of a company’s diverse prospective customer base, and can help businesses capture promising niche sectors and adjust to changing consumer needs.
4. Aging Population
In the face of an aging population, employers who have experience with persons with disabilities can apply their experience dealing with mobility, communication and learning issues to similar issues arising from an aging workforce.
5. Corporate image
The community tends to hold a positive image of businesses which employ persons with disabilities.
6. Common access
Common access due to employment of persons with disabilities spells advantages for other employees. For example, larger print and monitors and better lighting helps decrease eyestrain, not just for employees with disabilities, but for everyone. Ergonomic workstations, telecommuting and flexi-work schemes also benefit other employees. Auto doors installed for employees with disabilities are a relief as well to other employees or customers with accompanying children or heavy goods.
Beyond Dollars & Cents
With their skills and drive, persons with disabilities can make good employees just like anyone else. Employees with disabilities often feel that their drive and skill can prove to be a valuable reason which businesses should employ them. In addition, employers enjoy other intangible benefits, such as an increased awareness of co-workers as unique individuals among their employees.