"Diversity Training in the Workplace

Many small business owners are not ready to handle the problems associated with cultural diversity in the workplace.  If not prepared, a business may find themselves facing discrimination suits, litigation expenses, legal fees and settlements, high employee turnover, and negative community image. 

Have you ever had an employee get angry with you because they felt discriminated against--even though that was not your intention?  How did you respond? Were you able to diffuse the situation before it got out of control? Are you a woman business owner who takes male clients to lunch?  Who pays the bill ? you or him?   Do you travel abroad?  What types of cultural differences do you need to be aware of? Are you  prepared to deal with these situations? 

If you are a business owner, you need to recognize, respect, and capitalize on the different backgrounds in our society.  Different cultural groups have different values, styles, and personalities.  This reflects in how businesses interact.  Having a diverse workplace will improve your company?s competitive edge in the marketplace. 

Diversity, or sensitivity training is very common among large corporations now.  While many small business owners cannot afford this training, it is still important to put this into practice when dealing with your employees.  Many companies use different techniques for sensitivity training.  Videos, case studies, surveys, training manuals, or online training are all tools used.  You can find companies that will provide these services for your business or you can obtain the training information to use yourself.  You can obtain information from the library, bookstores, or online. QCIC , Porter Henry ,and C. Simpson & Associates,Inc are good Internet resources for sensitivity training.                              

 Use this training  to create a balance of respect and understanding in the workplace and to have happy and optimally productive workers.  It is also important for your employees to respect cultural diversity, as they will reflect this when dealing with your clients.