Additional Case 4.1 As the Director of HR, David Is Leading a Management

question 47

Multiple Choice

Additional Case 4.1
As the Director of HR, David is leading a management discussion to plan and implement a diversity management program. David is concerned that management, while tolerant, tends to stereotype minorities and this will eventually lead to difficulties for the firm. The company's top three markets are in Los Angeles, Chicago, and Miami. All three markets are heavily Latino in make-up. The senior management team is all male. The youngest member is 58 years of age.
Martinez, the VP of Operations, feels that people should blend together and that focusing on differences merely creates divisions. He thinks that you should have a common training program to create a unified "American" company culture. Patrick, VP of Finance, doesn't see the need for a program. He respects that people are different, but he feels that once you get to know a Hispanic, African-American, or Asian-American, you know how to work with any Hispanic, African-American, or Asian-American. Moreover, Patrick doesn't believe the company should get into affirmative action programs. The firm tried it ten years ago, and it created many problems.
Simon, the CEO, thinks a diversity management program is important. He believes the company is missing some important talent without such a program. Simon feels that the company can create a competitive advantage by being in the lead on this issue and also believes the changing workforce is going to require adjustments in the future.
-Refer to Additional Case 4.1.What should be the firm's first step in improving diversity management?

• A) Forming a commitment from top management to value diversity
• B) Implementing flextime and job share programs
• C) Initiating senior mentoring programs
• D) Developing communication standards

---

Definitions:

Androgen

A type of hormone that plays a role in the development of male traits and reproductive activity, primarily produced in the testes.

Male Genitals

The external and internal reproductive organs in males, including the penis, testicles, and associated structures.

Secondary Sex Characteristics

Physical traits that emerge during puberty which are not directly involved in reproduction, such as breast development in females and facial hair in males.

Pubertal Development

Refers to the biological changes during adolescence that lead to physical and sexual maturation.