Despite being the 21st century, racism remains a challenge.  The most recent events in Ferguson, MO coupled with the SAE chants at the University of Oklahoma are just two of the blatant and recent examples of uninformed and small-minded individuals making decisions with huge negative consequences.  And while the Justice Department, local government and even school officials are clamoring to make things right, it is a problem that we all ultimately need to help solve.

This is especially true in the workplace.  Creating an environment with diversity is not just trendy or required by the HR department.  It has been proven over time to drive clear innovation and enhance organizational results.  According to a study led at the University of Texas at Austin by Professor Bill Swann, working people from diverse backgrounds, be it race, age, gender, or geography, can approach a problem from different viewpoints, and, armed with a collective range of knowledge and experience, produce a better finished product.  The key to this success was only realized when the diversity was embraced by the entire group.

As a hiring manager, I personally see the value of hiring unique and talented people from all walks of life.  In Florida, where Creative Choice Group operates, the environment is like a mini melting pot attracting snowbirds, foreigners, business leaders and tourists alike.  The mixture of individuals on the outside looks disparate and unlikely to go together.  But collectively the eclectic groups make for one of the most exciting and booming cultural exchanges outside the major metro cities in the US.

Building an atmosphere to breed diversity takes work and commitment.  Experts recommend that one of the most important things to do in your business is to create a culture where employees feel comfortable, valued and most importantly, foster open communication where employees can share their opinions.  Training employees on how to value and embrace diversity is also important.  These life skills will help employees work together more fluidly but also assist managers to hire the right people to enhance your talented and unique work force.  An added bonus to your company by hiring and cultivating diverse employees is the ability to attract and win diverse customers.

Gone are the days of quotas and Affirmative Action law suits. Today rises the opportunity for us as leaders just to do business with more smarts. You know, hire the people that represent the diversity of our customers and find ways to celebrate the unique talents within our own teams.