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
-
15 July 2024
12 million euros for research into the impact of green hydrogen
A consortium to study the socio-economic impact of hydrogen, including three researchers at the University of Groningen, has been granted 12 million euros from the NWO.
-
11 July 2024
Royal decoration for dedicated Professor and mentor
On Thursday 11 July 2024, José Heesink retired. During her farewell, she received a royal decoration from Koen Schuiling, Mayor of the Municipality of Groningen.
-
27 June 2024
Practising with VR preschool class wins Dutch Education Award 2024
The project ‘De Klas op Orde met Virtual Reality’ [Order in the classroom with virtual reality] of the University of Groningen won the Dutch Education Award 2024. The Dutch Education Award is the highest award in secondary vocational and higher...