Influence of Workforce Diversity on Employee Performance In Construction Firms In Abuja, Nigeria

Abstract

In every organization, employees are regarded as the most valuable assets as their activity is crucial to achieving organizational goals. However, due to the diverse composition of the Nigerian populace, employees come from diverse regions and backgrounds which play a significant role in the way they conduct their lives and behave on the job. Therefore, this study aimed at assessing the influence of workforce diversity on employee performance in construction firms in Abuja. Primary data was obtained through well-structured questionnaire and administered to the employees of Urban Shelter Properties, Abuja. Analysis of the data was carried out with the use of Mean Item Score (MIS). The study revealed that the most influential factors affecting employee performance are commitment, competency, and organizational support with MIS 4.71, 4.69 and 4.47 respectively. While, the most effective strategies for enhancing performance of a diverse workforce are modeling of good behaviour by executive management, training of employees on diversity awareness and sensitivity and reverse mentoring between old and young employees with MIS of 4.27, 4.24, 4.20 respectively. Thus, the study concluded that the workforce diversity has a significant positive effect on employee performance. Based on this finding, the recommended that construction firms should consider increasing the skills, competence and commitment of employee’s through adequate training and provides them with necessary support in order to improve their performance. Construction firms should formalize, implement and measure diversity policies that will build an inclusive workplace in order to reap the benefits of diversity.