Equality and Diversity (3, 2)

Question 1

What different aspects could be considered when trying to achieve a “diverse” workforce?

Answer 1

Culture
Ethnic group
Nationality
Age
Marital status
Religious belief
Disabilities
Sexual orientation
Political beliefs
Work experience

Question 2

What is meant by “primary genetic” and “secondary learned” characteristics with respect of diversity?

Answer 2

Primary genetic characteristics you are born with (race or gender)
Secondary learner characteristics you develop (work experience or marital status)

Question 3

What are the challenges associated with equality, diversity and inclusion?

Answer 3

• Loss of focus of organisational goals in favour of specialist interests
• Cultures and attitudes clashing leading to conflict or isolation
• Needing a broader range of management skills

Question 4

What are the benefits associated with equality, diversity and inclusion?

Answer 4

• Opportunities for creativity and innovation
• Different talents or experiences, wide spread range of skills
• Broad base of culture or attitudes

Question 5

What are the risks to a company of failing to pursue a proactive approach to equality and diversity?

Answer 5

• An adverse impact on organisational culture
• Disaffected staff
• Public relations and reputational damage
• Potential law suits
• Ethical issues

Question 6

What are 4 types of discrimination?

Answer 6

• Direct discrimination, treating people less favourably based on their diversity
• Indirect discrimination, applying criteria which disadvantage individuals due to their diversity
• Harassment, intimidation or offending someone based on their diversity
• Victimisation, treating people less favourably based on something they have done in connection with their diversity

Question 7

What activities can leaders take to ensure diversity is embraced in their organisation?

Answer 7

• Policies
• Workforce composition
• Human resource procedures
• Local links (communities and schools)
• Job Criteria (fair award)
• Equality training for staff
• Enable time off for religious events

Question 8

What must be considered in relation to diversity and the effect their own beliefs might have?

Answer 8

A leaders beliefs, assumptions and experiences will affect the way they lead. The leader should test assumptions about people before acting on them, understand their own beliefs, maintain open communication channels and learn to understand the beliefs of staff members.

Question 9

What activities can a supply chain or procurement leader do to ensure diversity in the Supply Chain?

Answer 9

• Develop a code of ethics and diversity policies
• Review and change sourcing policies and practices
• Ensure supply base diversity reflects customer base
• Removing barriers to entry
• Encouraging suppliers to make similar policies for their supply chain
• Positive action supplier diversity programmes