Should Diversity Pay the Price in an Unstable Economy? An unsettled economic climate might cause some organizations to eye their diversity initiatives for cost-saving opportunities. A bit of belt-tightening is natural, but experts urge caution. Read this article

Feature Articles Shift Work Less Popular With Gen Y Workers Many young workers place greater value on their social life than on their work. This presents a challenge for companies requiring shift work, a recent survey from the California-based consultancy Shiftwork Solutions suggests, as Gen Y shift workers seek scheduling flexibility. Study Examines Effect of Sexual Orientation Bias Laws States which have enacted laws banning discrimination for sexual orientation have neither faced an overwhelming surge of complaints nor a drought of bias cases, according to a recent study. Homer Simpson Faces Islamophobia When a Muslim family moves from Jordan to the fictional town of Springfield, Homer Simpson of the animated TV show “The Simpsons” learns first-hand how destructive fear and stereotypes can be. Military Can Reflect Diversity Focus of Government, Society As President-elect Barack Obama prepares to take office on Jan. 20, 2009, the incoming administration’s transition team has indicated that diversity issues could play an important role in reshaping the federal workforce and U.S. military. Diversity Initiatives Are Change Initiatives Overcoming executive resistance to diversity efforts requires a change management approach, an expert says. The Diversity Journey Starts with a Vision The development of a diversity initiative is a daunting prospect for anyone. But experts say a well-crafted “vision of success” is a key element of the diversity journey. New Diversity Award Honors Group Efforts Organizations can put a piece of their diversity and inclusion initiative to the test by applying for the Diversity Council Honors Award, a new award designed to recognize excellence in the operation of diversity councils and affinity groups across the United States. Board Diversity Is Increasing Slowly The boardrooms of many top companies look a lot different than they did just a decade ago, according to the 23rd annual Spencer Stuart Board Index study of S&P 500 corporations. The Cost of Being Exclusive Diversity experts have long touted the business benefits from diversity and inclusion efforts, such as greater innovation, access to a broader customer base and increased productivity. Less clear, however, are the business risks of practices perceived as exclusionary. Obama Transition Team EEO Policy Protects Gender Identity When the web site for President-elect Barack Obama's transition office went live on Nov. 6, 2008, its new equal employment opportunity (EEO) policy grabbed the attention of diversity and human rights activists around the world. Making Room for Generation Y Companies must do a better job of hiring, appreciating and motivating young workers or risk being at a competitive disadvantage, according to Robert McGovern, founder and CEO of the career site Jobfox.

Diversity News HR Must Manage Demographics, SHRM Report Says Police and Banks Are Most Gay-Friendly Employers in U.K. For the Blind, Technology Does What a Guide Dog Can’t Millworker Wins Religious-Bias Fight Immigrants Feel Most American in the Workplace

Diversity Webcast Now Available Intercultural English: Workplace Collaboration Across Countries and Cultures Presenters: Lorelei Carobolante, GPHR, SCRP, CEO and chief pathfinder, G2nd Systems Understanding how most stakeholders use English as a non culture-specific tool is essential for HR professionals who support policy implementation, talent management, and selection in today's global workplace. Intercultural English ensures your messages are understood around the globe, reduces translation costs, and helps avoid misunderstandings. This webcast will include HR-relevant examples of how the convergence of non-native and native English speakers is influencing organizational results, employee recruiting and relations, and performance management. View this webcast

Available in SHRMSTORE Managing People Across Cultures Managing People Across Cultures maps out the value of people issues in the organizations of today. It challenges readers to ask key questions about the origin and purpose of HR. Authors Fons Trompenaars and Charles Hampden-Turner spell out their vision for what HRM must do to stay relevant. Their view is that people management must embrace the values of entrepreneurship i.e. agility, flexibility and innovation to ensure its continued effectiveness. More about this book More diversity titles