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.