Diversity very simply means differences. The broadest definition covers individual human differences, such as personality and work/learning/decision-making styles. We define diversity as “the uniqueness of all individuals, which encompasses different personal attributes, values and organizational roles.” It goes beyond just race and gender and includes all kinds of differences that matter to you, your peers, your customers, your employees and your stakeholders.

There are three dimensions of diversity that often represent the types of differences that are represented, particularly in the workplace. The dimensions of diversity are also the lenses and filters that we use and others use to identify people.

• The Primary Dimensions of Diversity are how we categorize others and ourselves. They are legislated federally or by local statues. They shape our basic self-image. The Primary Dimensions of Diversity are influenced by early socialization and continue to have a powerful, sustained impact on our experiences, values, assumptions and expectations throughout every stage of life. These six differences are sometimes referred to as the core dimensions of diversity because they exert an important impact on our early socialization and a powerful, sustained impact on our experiences, values, assumptions and expectations throughout every stage of life. These are the differences that people often use to self- identify and to describe themselves and often frame conversations.
• The Secondary Dimensions of Diversity are the differences we acquire  and sometimes discard or modify over time, based on the life decisions we make. The secondary dimensions of diversity are those that enhance one’s life experiences.
• Finally, there are the dimensions of diversity that we don’t always think about, but that can have a great impact on our interactions in the workplace.
  • Language and communications – not just the language a person speaks (English, Spanish, Italian, Mandarin, etc.) but how people like to share information with one another
  • Appearance and dress – beyond clothing and includes tattoos, piercing, hairstyles
  • Food and eating habits – types of food, when a person eats, vegetarians, vegan, lactose intolerance
  • Time and time-consciousness – preferred and most productive time of the day, punctuality, flexibility
  • Sense of space – how close does a person stand, how much of area do they require
  • Smokers and non-smokers