Unscrambling Culture: How to Break Down Barriers and Embrace Diversity
Culture is a multi-layered phenomenon that defines a person, a group, or a society. It is the amalgamation of shared beliefs, values, behaviors, and customs that give meaning to life. Understanding and respecting each other’s culture is crucial in building a harmonious, inclusive workplace. The more we appreciate diversity, the more we can create intercultural connections and flourish as a community. But, how can we break down the barriers that hinder diversity and cultivate a culture of inclusivity?
What are the Barriers to Diversity?
Barriers to diversity are anything that keeps people from working together harmoniously. Some of the possible obstacles to diversity in the workplace are:
Unconscious Bias
Unconscious bias is the attitudes or stereotypes that affect our behavior negatively towards others without even realizing it. This bias can be based on age, race, ethnicity, religion, gender, or any other factor that differentiates us. It is essential to recognize and acknowledge our biases so that we can work to eliminate them.
Language and Communication Challenges
Language barriers can reduce effective communication, leading to misunderstandings and conflicts. Clear communication plays a vital role in building relationships and understanding differences.
Exclusionary Work Culture and Policies
A work culture that is exclusive of particular populations can trigger self-elimination by minority groups. Employers should try to cultivate a culture inclusive of all, promote diversity, equity and inclusion through their policies to ensure that all voices are heard.
Embracing Diversity
Breaking down the barriers to diversity is not an easy task. However, it is essential to create an environment where everyone feels welcomed, valued, and supported. The following are some practical steps you can take to embrace diversity in your organization.
Train the Employees on Cultural Competence
Provide opportunities for employees to learn about other cultures and perspectives. Encourage cultural awareness training that will enhance communication and interaction among employees.
Encourage Team-Building Activities
Team-building activities can help build relationships, promote better communication, and reduce conflicts among coworkers. Creating a fun environment outside of work for employees to learn and be part of different activities will help build a bond with others.
Promote Inclusivity in Decision-making
Organizations that value diversity should integrate diverse perspectives in decision-making; employees from different backgrounds should be allowed to share their views, which should be weighed equally in the decision-making process.
Have Support Groups
Employee resource groups provide a platform for diverse employees to connect and share ideas and experiences, even if they are not openly discussed in the office.
Conclusion
Diversity is crucial in creating an inclusive and harmonious workplace. The first step is to recognize and break down barriers that hinder diversity. Subsequently, the focus should be on creating a work culture that encourages and values inclusivity. Encouraging cultural competence and team-building activities, promoting inclusivity in decision-making, and creating employee resource groups are some of the practical steps that employers can take. By embracing diversity, we can build a collective vision of growth and positively influence the society at large.
