SELECTING FOR DIVERSITY

This paper examines the subject of selecting for diversity. It begins with a brief discussion on what diversity means in this context. An examination is then made of the reasons given by several authors as to why organizations should select for diversity. The paper particularly focuses on (i) gaining greater access to the available talent, and (ii) enhanced team working and effectiveness. Next, the paper discusses an area that is both contentious and controversial in terms of selecting for diversity: that of affirmative action. Here an examination is made of some of the background to affirmative action, the different models and views that people hold of it, and how this fits into a diversity framework.