Topic
Consider this excerpt from “Why We Need to Stop Talking About Diversity of Thought.” Feel free to read the entire article or just this paragraph:
Link: https://www.forbes.com/sites/rebekahbastian/2019/05/13/why-we-need-to-stop-talking-about-diversity-of-thought/?sh=277e945b67c3
Employees Should Represent Customers
“In order to create business models and build products that serve all customers, a critical mass of employees who represent the many identities of customers is needed. Having varying experiences and perspectives isn’t a shortcut to understanding what customers experience. The importance of employee representation reflecting customers has been proven many times over, such as the crash test dummies that didn’t factor in safety for female bodies or soap dispensers that didn’t recognize dark skin.”
Construct an original posting of 250-300 words that expresses your feelings about employee representation reflecting the business’ customers. This is an important viewpoint to diversity and another perspective from which to view it. Some potential talking points:
Do you feel there is any mal-intent at play when a company doesn’t test/appeal to/target all sectors of society?
Is there room /should there be room for dialogue on that point?
Many companies improve or readjust products based on feedback, or reach new markets where there was no presence for their product in the past. Is it more important that they are willing to pivot and acknowledge their errors / what they overlooked? Why do you feel this way?
Does the size of the company come into play (a GM or Ford versus a smaller OEM, for example, or Walmart versus a local small business)?
Does the industry matter (for example, healthcare over retail)?
What about schools (K-12 through higher ed)?
Should the government be involved in this or should the customers “vote” with their dollars and loyalty?
Your opinions all matter, may vary, and require respect from everyone. For that reason, you should use words like “may” or “some” or “possibly” or “in my viewpoint” – this helps to show you are open to other perspectives, at least on the discussion forum.
