Employees’ perceptions of diversity management strategies in a South African travel company

Abstract

Diversity is essential in today’s interconnected world as it fosters creativity, innovation, and adaptability within organisations. A diverse workforce combines different viewpoints, experiences and skills, which can considerably improve problem-solving and decision-making processes. Companies can gain a competitive advantage by accepting people of all backgrounds, including colour, gender, age, and culture. This study examines employees' perspectives on diversity management techniques in the South African tourism industry.

Utilising a qualitative research methodology, the study examines the relationship between diversity management and key factors such as employee engagement, productivity, and retention. Through thematic analysis of data gathered from interviews, several prominent themes emerged, including inclusivity, a variety of backgrounds, and the principles of equality and fairness in understanding workplace diversity.

The findings underscore the importance of effective diversity management in nurturing a robust company culture and enhancing overall organisational performance. Recommendations for improving diversity management strategies include ongoing training and awareness initiatives, better communication, increased representation of diverse groups in leadership positions, the establishment of community partnerships, and the continuous evaluation and adaptation of these strategies. The study acknowledges its limitations and suggests avenues for future research, highlighting the necessity for larger sample sizes, longitudinal studies, and refined methodologies to gain a deeper understanding of diversity management practices within the travel industry. Overall, this research provides valuable insights to assist organisations in creating more inclusive workplaces, ultimately leading to greater employee engagement and satisfaction.