Final answer:
Diversity in the workforce has the advantage of making teams more productive due to a broader range of skills and perspectives, which can improve team interactions and performance. Diversity training can further enhance teamwork by reducing prejudice and fostering a positive work environment. Gender-balanced teams, in particular, have been shown to be more effective.
Step-by-step explanation:
One advantage of diversity in the workforce is that teams are more productive. This productivity can stem from a variety of factors, including an increased skill set and diverse perspectives that contribute to a positive work environment. Studies like those conducted by Hoogendoorn, Oosterbeek, & van Praag (2013) have shown that gender-balanced teams can perform better with respect to sales and profits, suggesting that a diversity of skills and perspectives may improve interactions and lead to enhanced team performance.
Furthermore, diversity training can help bridge cultural differences, leading to improved teamwork and reduced prejudice. When teams work under conditions that include equal standing, common goals, and institutional support, any existing biases may diminish, making the team more cohesive and effective. Pettigrew and Tropp's (2006) meta-analysis indicates a significant effect in reducing prejudice through group contact, especially under conducive conditions.
An additional benefit is that a diverse workforce can encourage new perspectives and foster a positive work environment, which aligns with the second reason for the decreased discrimination in hiring practices in America. This inclusion of diverse talent not only breaks down discriminatory barriers but can also be key to an organization harnessing the full potential of the labor market.