Finding Common Ground in a Diverse Workplace

Cultural Diversity

Finding common ground in a diverse workplace

Abstract

This paper will summarize research completed on cultural diversity in the workplace. The ability to understand cultural diversity is very important; although companies encourage diversity in the workplace they must also respect diversity. There are many challenges and barriers that organizations encounter when employing a diverse workforce. In today's environment of economical distress more and more organizations have looked for means to become more productive. Companies recognized that diversity contributes to the overall growth and prosperity of its organization. Successful organizations recognize the resources required to manage diversity in the workplace. An organization's success and competitiveness depends upon its ability to welcome diversity and realize its benefits.

Keywords: Cultural Diversity, Organizations, Workplace, Communication

Cultural Diversity

America is considered the home of diverse grouping. Many people become westernized, but keep their beliefs and ethnicity. Workplace diversity is defined as the mixture of different types of people within an organization. As simple as it may sound, diversity includes race, gender, ethnic group, age and much more. Interaction between others in a diversity setting can be affect by the level of awareness. Diversity involves how people perceive themselves as well as how they perceive others. Employees should not center their attention on the differences that surrounds them. It will be easier to identify the connection when you do not put all the focus on yourself. There are many benefits associated with workplace diversity. Diversity in the workplace sets the stage for more creative and innovative ideas. Employees from different cultural bring different viewpoints to the workplace. When these employees are encourage to voice their opinions, a competitive advantage for the organization results. Implementing a diverse workplace is necessary in order to be competitive and provide better client services.

As organizations become more and more diverse the most important skill that is required is communication. For organization to function effectively, human resource professionals will need to deal effectively with the issues pertaining to communication and adapting to changes. In a compelling new book by authors Claire Raines and Lara Ewing they emphasize the important of closing communication gaps between people groups who think of themselves as different culturally. Master communicator knows that relationships form over time. Most begin through trial and error. As you focus on good communication skills, don't always assume that your intentions will be mutual with others in the workplace with different characteristics. Listening skills can be used as a tool for improving our ability to connect Language differences are one of most difficult obstacles to conquer. To alleviate communication strains with non-English speakers, use jargon words, speak slowly, and be patient. Remember, the English language is known for its grammar and pronunciation difficulties. A diverse workplace that feels comfortable communicating will provide a variety of solutions to problems .The organization will also be able to meet the needs of customer on a global basis.

. Knowledge of the norms and customs of differing cultures reduces barriers and opens new channels of understanding and acceptance. Cultural different do exist, but there are bridges that connects everywhere. Some bridges to connection are food, family, and places of interest. Every individual is considered to be a cultural. Many Americans function as individuals, relating their successes or failure to their contributions to their organization. American also rely on time as productivity, but other countries especially Latin American and African nations, often see time as plentiful rather than passing. The concept of deadlines can be confusing to non-Westerners. Collectivist cultures value employees who work well in groups and are loyal toward other within their organization.