Transcending Differences

 

Today's workplace can expose us to many different cultures and backgrounds. You may have a colleague from a different country or a co-worker with a different background. Here are some recommendations on how to interact effectively with people of diverse cultures and backgrounds:

• Be aware of your own cultural viewpoint and influences. Understand that the similarities and differences among people are important.
• Understand your preconceived notions and attitudes toward cultural differences. Accept that there are multiple ways to reach the same goal and live life.
• Learn about cultural traditions. Learning about another culture's language, rules, and norms for behavior will help you understand some of the differences.
• Communicate positively to create mutual understanding.

How do we know what different cultures need? Instead of treating others as you want to be treated, treat others as they want to be treated. Respect for people and their differences is core to having an inclusive and diverse workplace.

 

What does respect look like? Does it look the same for everyone?

Unconscious beliefs impact the way we perceive others, perceive ourselves, and influence our organizations.