Dealing with differences. Managing the benefits and threats of cultural diversity in the workplace
PhD ceremony: Mr. J. Hofhuis, 14.30 uur, Academiegebouw, Broerstraat 5, Groningen
Dissertation: Dealing with differences. Managing the benefits and threats of cultural diversity in the workplace
Promotor(s): prof. K.I. van Oudenhoven-van der Zee, prof. S Otten
Faculty: Bevavioural and Social Sciences
Dealing with cultural diversity in the workplace is an important challenge for modern organisaties. Existing research shows that cultural diversity may have positive outcomes for organizations, such as increased creativity and innovation in teams, as well as negative outcomes, particularly for social interactions in the workplace.
The dissertation Dealing with Differences: Managing the Benefits and Threats of Cultural Diversity in the Workplace, by Joep Hofhuis, present four studies which provide new insights in the way organizations can minimize the negative effects of diversity, while still allowing them to take advantage of the positive effects.
The research in this dissertation shows that employees are not necessarily pro or con diversity, as is often assumed, but instead may possess a more nuanced view. They may recognize both positive and negative outcomes at the same time. Furthermore, this dissertation provides evidence that a strong diversity climate – an organizational climate characterized by openness and appreciation of diversity – may be the key to reducing diversity-related problems. Additionally, such a climate will allow organizations to take advantage of the possible benefits of diversity.
Finally, a study is presented which examines cultural diversity in selection and assessment procedures. It shows that recruiters who have a positive view on diversity may be better able to spot potential talent among candidates with a different cultural background.
Last modified: | 13 March 2020 12.59 a.m. |
More news
-
04 July 2022
Research on how tourists become Antarctic ambassadors
Dr Annette Scheepstra of the UG Arctic Centre, part of the Faculty of Arts, is about to conduct research into tourism in Antarctica and how tourists can become Antarctic ambassadors. She has been granted €1 million in funding by the Dutch Research...
-
16 June 2022
International expert on deafblindness presents new perspectives at farewell symposium
Farewell symposium Prof. Marleen Janssen, -expert deafblindness
-
30 May 2022
A happy life with a mental illness
Stynke Castelein is dedicated to helping people with severe mental illnesses to regain their place in society and to give meaning to their lives. She and her team are researching new treatment methods for people with severe mental illnesses. Her...