Mary F. Salomon

Turn diversity to your advantage

OVERVIEW: Research organizations are learning how to turn a diverse workforce into a competitive advantage. An effective diversity program begins with training at all levels of the organization. The best training programs focus on inclusion and are professionally developed. Providing “eye-opening” experiences such as temporary assignments in foreign cultures is recommended to help specific employees better understand the challenges faced by others. Mentoring is also important in gaining the full value from a diverse workforce. Special attention must be paid to the pipeline. Succession planning addresses the pipeline at the top of the organization, but pipeline development efforts must extend down into the organization where diverse candidates are being lost. Mid-level managers and supervisors must be encouraged to identify and develop a diverse pool of candidates.