Week 10 discussion paper Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Week 10 discussion paper - Essay Example SMEs in relatively homogeneous, more rural communities will not find it relevant at all, compared to the larger businesses in urban centers with a more diverse population (Pegues, 2009). Therefore, I would say my perspective has indeed shifted but my opinion is qualified. If anything, the course has made me aware of the intricacies of D&I as it is defined in the American context, not only as a potential source of competitive advantage, but as a disadvantage in certain cultures and environments. In an increasing number of cases, diversity and inclusion are non-issues, not because underrepresented minorities are not welcome, but simply because people of different backgrounds are not tagged as â€Å"minorities†. Persons who are most capable for the job are hired whatever their racial, cultural, religious, gender, or other affiliations, but are not identified or symbolized as such. That, I think, is the eventual aim of all D&I efforts, that the economic and political disadvantages that are historically perpetuated against some social groups would eventually disappear. Then diversity and inclusion will be a non-issue and will render itself irrelevant. To a certain extent, I had found the book â€Å"Trailblazers† useful and enlightening, because it focused attention on the application of diversity and inclusion in specific aspects of a business. Quite fittingly, the early chapters dealt with the importance of CEO and upper mangement involvement in D&I, rather than just relegating diversity programs to a vague function in HR. From the beginning, emphasis was given to leadership commitment. Any other aspect may fall short of D&I requirements, but with the support and mandate given by the CEO and the Chief Diversity Officer, all other shortcomings may be compensated. Succeeding chapters underscored the necessity for the twin frameworks,