Diversity as a Numbers Game
Diversity is given a lot of lip service in associations. We see diversity initiatives, diversity committees, diversity scholarships, and more. However, diversity is most often viewed as a necessary evil at worst and a numbers game at best. Members of diverse groups (of a different nationality, gender, age, etc., than the “average” member) are purposefully placed on boards and committees to meet diversity goals and/or to be politically correct.
Diversity is usually not seen for what it really is: a business strategy. As Frans Johansson is most famous for expressing, diversity brings greater potential for a wider range of perspectives and ideas which can lead to new and improved products and services. A great strategy for getting out of the “we’ve always done it that way” mentality would be to truly embrace diversity and the value it could bring to your association.
And, contrary to popular belief, probably the first clue that an association hasn’t fully embraced diversity is that it still has a diversity committee.
I really enjoyed this post, Mickie. I wrote an article with the same message for the Center’s Journal a while back. When we bring a diverse group of individuals together (and I would go beyond the typical race, gender, age, orientation, etc.) we end up with much richer ideas and well-thought-out solutions. I actually think it’s a bit insulting to be invited to volunteer based on my gender or age – and whether or not that’s stated outright, it can be quite obvious once you get in the room. Until we stop thinking about diversity as a numbers game and instead consider the impact of diversity as an organizational value, we’ll keep wasting everyone’s time.
Others were touting this belief long before Franz came along the scene.
Jeffrey, I read that to mean that Franz became well known based on his thoughts about diversity in business, not as the most famous diversity expert.
I do think he has found a very compelling way to present the benefits of diversity without calling it diversity, which helps to bring it to an audience who have tuned out on the topic otherwise.