Employees Not Impressed by Diversity Efforts

NEW YORK - The Associated Press reported less than 33% of U.S. workers believe their companies have effective diversity programs, according to a report by the National Urban League.  The report found under 50% of those surveyed had favorable opinions of their companies' efforts on recruiting, leadership commitment, and career development.

"We have work to do," said Marc Morial, president/CEO of the New York-based civil rights group.  "One of the reasons why this study is important is it gives us a sense of where we are."

Also, 65% of those surveyed agreed diversity improved creativity and innovation in the workplace, and 80% said they were comfortable working in diverse teams.  When asked if their company had an effective diversity program, only 32% had a favorable response, while 26% had a negative view of their companies' efforts.  The rest were neutral.  Among whites, 29% thought favorably of their companies' efforts; another 29% rated them negatively.  Among blacks, Hispanics, Asian-Americans, and Native Americans, 34% from each group were positive about company initiatives.