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:

Boredom

A state of weariness or dissatisfaction resulting from a lack of interest, excitement, or engagement with activities.

Unavailability

The state of being not obtainable or not able to be accessed.

Attachment Difficulties

Attachment difficulties refer to challenges or disruptions in forming secure and stable emotional bonds with caregivers or significant others, often resulting in emotional and relationship problems.

Psychotherapy

A therapeutic treatment involving psychological methods, typically involving conversations with a psychologist, to address mental health challenges or disorders.