From Lose Friends Radio comes this segment called ‘Diversity at work’, narrated as an excerpt from one of Jonar’s books. You can read the transcript below, or listen to the original broadcast by clicking on the green play button: [audio:BTB_01_Diversity.mp3]
From the Lose Friends series, here is what Jonar Nader has written about: DIVERSITY AT WORK
Solid organisations need stability, not diversity. In my organisation, I do not need diversity of values — I will not work with cheating, conniving hounds. I do not need diversity of ethics — I will not work with liars and thieves. I do not need diversity of culture — I will not work with people who blame their undesirable behaviour by virtue of their culture… People cannot control who their parents are. They cannot control the colour of their hair, or what they look like. However, they can control whether or not they steal, lie, or intimidate and bully others… Do not allow anyone to lower your standards on the basis of diversity. Work with people who can help you to diversify your understanding, not your morals.
As to FREEDOM vs DIVERSITY, encouraging freedom-of-thought is not the same as encouraging diversity-of-thought. In a work environment, staff members must be free to express their feelings, thoughts, and ideas. However, to tolerate diversity is asking for trouble. Although diversity makes life colourful and interesting, it must not be allowed to over-rule the establishment. Playing by the rules is important for teamwork. Playing to one tune is just as vital. Beware the team whose diverse views do not match the organisation’s ethics or values. People must be free to think and to say what they feel is professionally relevant. However, they ought not be given leeway to exercise their diversity without the approval of the project manager.
For information about Jonar’s books, please visit the official website www.LoseFriends.com
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