When the rhetoric doesn't match the reality: equality and diversity in recruitment and retention of staff: While many organizations claim to practice non‐sexist and non‐racist recruitment policies, in reality white males have unfair advantages, both at job interviews, and later during job evaluations

Abstract

Purpose

This article reviews the latest management developments across the globe and pinpoints practical implications from cutting‐edge research and case studies.

Design/methodology/approach

This briefing is prepared by an independent writer who adds their own impartial comments and places the articles in context.

Findings

Equality and diversity are important social values and should underpin all aspects of life in modern multi‐ethnic, multi‐cultural societies. However rhetoric does not always match the reality and nowhere is this more apparent than in the workplace. Sexual and ethnic discrimination still exist, in recruitment, selection and evaluation of employees. This review examines some of the evidence, explores what can go wrong and highlights an example of excellent practice that could become a model for other organizations

Practical implications

Provides strategic insights and practical thinking that have influenced some of the world's leading organizations.

Originality/value

The briefing saves busy executives and researchers hours of reading time by selecting only the very best, most pertinent information and presenting it in a condensed and easy‐to‐digest format.

Citation

(2006), "When the rhetoric doesn't match the reality: equality and diversity in recruitment and retention of staff: While many organizations claim to practice non‐sexist and non‐racist recruitment policies, in reality white males have unfair advantages, both at job interviews, and later during job evaluations", Human Resource Management International Digest, Vol. 14 No. 3, pp. 29-32. https://doi.org/10.1108/09670730610663231