Cultural Diversity and Inclusion in the Workplace

 

Speaker: Donald Thompson

video link : The ROI of Diversity & Inclusion (May 2021) - YouTube 

Organizations that implement a diverse and inclusive standards become more profitable and can expand their reach within clients or customers. We understand what the terms diversity and inclusion mean, but in terms of culture, what makes a good intercultural communicator? A manager that celebrates cultural diversities and apply inclusive practices is the one who accepts, adapts and integrate this differences to promote a healthier and dynamic environment. We accept differences by acknowledging them and by getting ourselves informed about them, adapt by being able to emphasize or connect, and integrate when differences are embraced and celebrated (Veltsos & Hynes, 2021). 

Thompson (2021) exposes the positive effect we can fid if instead of feeling ashamed of our unique characteristics, we empower upon them and embrace them to help us reach success. This is a thoughtful and positive technique that an help us adapt in a diverse group. Differences are what makes us individuals, and as individuals we should celebrate what makes us stand from the crowds. In the workplace, is necessary for managers to develop a diverse and inclusive culture that provides just and fair opportunities to all individuals without consideration of law protected characteristics and believes or opinions. 

Some of the practices we can implement to ensure we are creating a cultural diverse and inclusive environment are: 

*acknowledging holidays or special dates of different cultures

*extending inclusiveness to religious focused groups 

*extending inclusiveness to different nationalities and ethnic groups

*acknowledge different languages

*acknowledge and celebrate cultural difference

*learn about other's cultures

*promote a save environment 

*hire from other countries

*accommodate religious practices (ex. allow praying time for certain groups)

*understand and accommodate cultural attire and behaviors

When communicating to a diverse group of people is important to utilize appropriate language, tone and nonverbal gestures. Cultures vary on the way of communicating, that's why is important to pronounce words correctly, not rush, use visualization and other resources for demonstrations, avoid slang and ensure all concerns and questions are addressed. 

Resources

Veltsos, J. R., & Hynes, G. E. (2021). Managerial Communication: Strategies and Applicatrions. Sage Publications, Inc. 8th edition pp 317-331

Thompson, D. (2021). The ROI of diversity and inclusion. Embry Riddle Vantage Point. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AiulrECgAnE