Recruiting, Selection & Retention: Address Objections to Diversity & Promote Inclusion (PDF)

There are numerous objections raised by those who are not receptive to diversity in the workplace. These objections are often used to alleviate any responsibility on the part of the individuals for putting forth any efforts to work at acceptance and openness to improve cooperation and productive relationships. Considerations for actions to take and key points for addressing over 30 objections are provided. Several examples of objections include the following:

•  Does adopting diversity and inclusion mean we have to lower our standards?
•  Diversity is just about race and gender.
•  Diversity only benefits minorities.
•  Aren't whites "people of color" too?
•  Why must I accommodate others' culture if it means giving up my own identity?
•  If people just treated others respectfully, there would be no need for diversity.

This tool enables those in human resources, training and development and management to confront discrimination in the workplace. Specific actions can be selected from those presented to ensure success in a specific industry and organization. Actions presented may also spark other ideas for addressing biases and excuses while assigning personal accountability to each associate for demonstrating respect and inclusion.