"Organisations are well advised to allow and promote diversity," says Renate Ortlieb, Professor of Human Resources Policy. Diversity has positive effects - demonstrably so. Mixed teams increase productivity and inventiveness. And they create friction. Conflict and creativity are therefore very close to each other.
Recognising conflicts
"Diversity creates inequalities - from cultural disadvantages to the gender pay gap. This causes wasted talent, unproductivity and discrimination," says the scientist, calling for more awareness of disadvantages.
Diversity alone is not enough. "It has to be well managed," Ortlieb demands. "Top management must recognise and moderate conflicts." Awareness training and anti-bias training can bring about change. Even though, as Ortlieb admits, the measures often do not reach those who need it most. In addition, there is the danger that minorities are not only ignored but also considered incompetent, Ortlieb cites the results of a study. "Opinion is quickly dismissed, potential is underestimated."
Overall, the entrepreneurial mindset is crucial, that is, the attitude of all employees - from managers to cleaners. According to human resources expert Ortlieb, it is not enough to present oneself on the website as a company that promotes diversity, to only fulfil legal quotas and prohibitions of discrimination. And because these attitudes change only slowly, progress is slow. The expert reasons: "Power relations are rigid and difficult to break."
Internationalisation
On the other hand, cultural diversity in working life is increasing very rapidly. Both internationalisation and the lack of personnel are forcing a change of perspective - without any agenda. Ortlieb confirms this: "Business fields have been operating interculturally for a long time. This is already noticeable in the different manners used in meetings." The positive side effect: "Once you get used to dealing with differences, it's easier to deal with other differences.