Cultural Diversity at Workplace

Abstract

The goal of the thesis was to study the impacts of cultural diversity on workplace environments, emphasizing the benefits and challenges associated with diverse organizational backgrounds. Conducted in partnership with RTK Palvelut Oy, a Finnish property maintenance firm, the research aimed to assess how cultural diversity influences organizational practices and employee well-being. The objective was to analyse current diversity management strategies within RTK Palvelut Oy, to identify common challenges, and to evaluate the value of existing approaches to manage challenges.

The two main parts of this thesis are the theoretical framework, which explores into the organizational challenges posed by diversity, the factors promoting workplace diversity, and the benefits and challenges are closely interconnected; and the empirical analysis, which uses data from interviews to address the research questions. This study utilized a qualitative methodology, using a deductive approach to analyze both primary and secondary data. Primary data was collected through semi-structured interviews with supervisors and employees at RTK Palvelut Oy. The thesis derived secondary data from a systematic review of academic literature, which included books and peer-reviewed articles discussing workforce diversity.

The findings reveal that while cultural diversity presents certain challenges, it also brings substantial benefits, such as improved interpersonal relations and greater organizational connection. These benefits significantly develop staff alignment with the company's mission. When managed effectively, challenges of cultural diversity can become opportunities, thereby increasing its positive impacts. The thesis concludes with strategic recommendations for improving cultural diversity management, aimed at supporting the benefits of a multicultural workforce for businesses. These recommendations provide a foundation for RTK Palvelut Oy and similar organizations to develop effective diversity management strategies.