Changing Workforce Composition

Before getting into it, Let us think for a while...

 What is Diversity?

Is it just the distinction in race, caste, gender and nationalities of people? It is more than this.

In broader terms diversity means respect for and appreciation of differences in various dimensions like gender, religion, ethnicity, origin, disability, sexual orientation, nationality and education .We all come with varied work-experiences, perspectives, cultures and life styles.

As regarding me,I am from India.When I first stepped into Canada everything was so different for me.I saw the social mix of people.Variety of culture,people,values,norms and beliefs was visible .I came across many international students with distinct background,ethnic origin,cultures and languages.I study as well as work along with them.In fact, Diversity is a great tool.This experience inculcates in me a great sense of "Unity In Diversity". I am looking forward to share my experiences in relation to working in diverse society.

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This brings us to the concept of workforce diversity that includes important human characteristics that influence an employees values, perceptions of self and others and behaviors.

As regarding Canada, The Canadian labour market is constantly and swiftly undergoing conversions. Employers in all the sectors of Canadian economy are now focused on attracting and retaining the diverse workforce. Employers are now aware of the fact that “To win in your market you need to hire the market”. As the markets tend to globalize, diverse workforce is the necessity.As the source of innovation and revolution, diversity has turned out to be a “Big Idea” in business and society.

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Ø  According to Statistics Canada, as of 2011,  net labour force growth in Canada comes from immigration.  According to Statistics Canada, by 2017, the number of visible minorities in Canada will account for approximately 20% of Canada’s population and this ratio is expected to double.

s This  changing trend of workforce composition has large impact on global businesses.

Here are some questions for you to think about:

1.Are there challenges associated with diverse workforce?

2. Is  diversified workplace more successful?

3. Is the concept of diversifying the workplace just a strategic path for organizations to the way of success?

References:
1. http://www.theglobeandmail.com/report-on-business/careers/business-education/workplace-diversity-to-win-in-your-market-you-need-to-hire-the-market/article15039793/-more%20than%20just%20the%20social%20responsibility/

2.http://www.rbc.com/diversity/what-is-diversity.html

3.http://hrcouncil.ca/hr-toolkit/diversity-workforce-matters.cfm