Diversity goes beyond demographic characteristics (e.g., age, gender, race, physical ability, sexual orientation) – it is really about variation in perception, modes of thinking, feeling, communication, and behaving. If managed correctly, these differences that can ultimately help an organization succeed.

Differences in worldviews and approaches to problem-solving are what organizations need to thrive. Diversity is an asset when organizational members realize that different ideas and ways of doing things can spark innovation and excitement within themselves. When celebrated, a diverse workforce will find a greater variety of solutions, increased adaptability in members and the organization, and a level of comfort in communicating effectively in any situation. Diversity becomes a challenge, however, when people seek to find constrained similarities in others to ensure others fit within their own worldview. Closed-mindedness inhibits communication, sharing of ideas, and personal and organizational success.

This course is highly interactive, and includes a workbook, activities and assessments.

Audience

Anyone and everyone in your organization. Tailored for managers specifically if desired.

Course Format Options

Off the shelf, this course can be taught in a half-day or full one-day. We can also customize one for you.

Description

This course covers the following principles of intercultural communication:

• Perception, stereotypes, and prejudice
• Socialization and identity
• Culture, language, and nonverbal communication
• Cultural values
• Building relationships and managing conflict across cultures
• Empathy, self-awareness and respect for others
• Barriers to effective intercultural communication
• Effective intercultural communication strategies

Learning Objectives

After attending this course, attendees will be able to:

• Describe the concept of diveristy and why it should be celebrated
• Describe their own cultural heritage and identities
• Determine their own perceptions, stereotypes and prejudices, and understand how to recognize them in the future
• Maintain a conversation style that seeks similarities, not differences, in others
• Interpret the behaviors of another culture within that culture’s own framework
• Communicate more effectively with team members and clients despite cultural barriers
• Identify cultural dichotomies within their own culture, others cultures, and their organization
• Empathize and respect others to create a supportive and collaborative work environment
• Celebrate differences in ideas and ways of doing things