The 3 types of diversity

By Brian Maynor

 

Diversity is always a hot topic, especially in the professional world, but most of the time it is a very limited concept.  What do you think about when you hear the word ‘diversity’?

The truth is, diversity means something different to everyone you ask, but no matter how we choose to define it, all of the definitions can be divided into three main categories:  demographic, experiential and cognitive.

Demographic diversity includes race, gender, sexual orientation, etc. and is related to our identities since birth.  Experiential diversity are our hobbies, abilities and interests and develop with life experiences.  Cognitive diversity includes problem solving and how we think critically.

Each of these categories work simultaneously to shape our identity, but companies tend only focus on one, demographic.  Here are a few tips on how to better address each type of diversity from Celia de Anna and Salvador Aragon, leading experts in the field:

1.   Demographic diversity.  For the past several decades companies have been developing and implementing polices around demographic diversity.  These often center around inclusion polices, aka Starbucks’ racial bias training earlier this week.  These trainings, policies, surveys and campaigns help attract minorities by making them feel valued and appreciated, while bolstering the general image and reputation of the company.

2.    Experiential diversity.  Like all diversity, experiential diversity is based on personal experiences, but this one can actually change over time.  As life happens and we gain experiences, I hope we all expand our horizons and change for the better.  How terrible would it be if we stayed the same and never grew?  To address this type of diversity and its changing nature, companies have started focusing on its culture and cultivating internal communities for its employees.  The goal is to create an emotional tie to the company and coworkers by creating opportunities for shared experiences.

3.    Cognitive diversity.  Like experiential diversity, cognitive diversity is also community based, but it in a different way.  This type of diversity is all about feeling valued for our unique perception and interpretation of the world, and is not limited by geographic location or concerned with the other types of diversity.  One of the best ways to express our cognitive diversity is to participate in communities working on a common project.  Companies are both supporting and facilitating these opportunities that both strengthen cross-organizational ties and talents and achieve a goal.

As the world gets smaller it also becomes more complex, especially when it comes to our identities.  In the pursuit of standing out and claiming our place in the world, we are constantly evolving and playing with our identities.  By tweaking each one we can express our many unique and different sides.

 

 

 

I’m always excited to hear from you, so please email your questions, quandaries and conundrums to [email protected].

 

About Brian Maynor

Brian Maynor has built a reputation as one of the leading style coaches in the Southeast and is quickly expanding his eponymous company, BRIAN MAYNOR and his FIND, FLATTER & FLAUNT line of image consulting services. A professional with a fresh, upbeat and down-to-earth personality and boundless creative energy, he works frequently with with local celebrities; Fortune 500 companies and nonprofit organizations; modeling agencies; fashion designers; production companies; record labels; media and individuals. A regular contributor to various fashion blogs and online communities, Brian Maynor is one of the most trusted and recognized style experts in the region, utilizing his education and training as a broadcast journalist to serve as a style lecturer, emcee, and commentator for over a decade. He has appeared at fashion shows, expos, and charity fundraisers, as well as events with big brands like Banana Republic, Ann Taylor, Chico’s and Macy’s. His approach is innovative, creative and fashion-forward, balancing fresh, modern styles with classic pieces to keep one’s look grounded. To learn more, visit http://www.brianmaynor.com.

 

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