One of the best courses I have ever been on

ORGANISATIONAL DEVELOPMENT

Managing Cultural Diversity In The Workplace

There is an urgent need to develop awareness of the diverse social and cultural identities among people who work together in locally based organisations or in the world-wide marketplace. The course seeks to introduce participants to some of the dynamics of cross-cultural understandings and misunderstandings and how to smooth matters!

In addition to addressing management issues, a wealth of knowledge and information will be shared about the dimensions of culture and diversity in the workplace. Practical 'hands-on' skills and tools will be taught to delegates to help reduce cross-cultural misunderstandings and encourage positive working relationships.

Aims of workshop

This workshop will be of benefit to anyone who works in an increasingly culturally diverse environment. It will interest those who seek to secure and foster a respectful workplace environment. For the benefit of those participants whose work and personal interests lie in the global market place, strategies and approaches for specific countries can be addressed.

Objectives

At the conclusion of the programme, participants should be able to:

• Understand how to manage and work effectively with a culturally diverse workforce
• Explain elements of culture: values, 'the rules', ideologies and understand how they can influence workplace performance
• Outline basic psychological communication factors in cross-cultural differences
• Demonstrate techniques to handle situations in which individuals have dramatically different perspectives

Workshop programme

Participants may be introduced to a range of subjects drawing on:

• What is cultural diversity?
• The 'cultural onion': assumptions, beliefs, values, norms, orientations and traits
• Cultural value orientations
• Patterns of cognition and communication
• Recognition and respect: putting cultural diversity to work
• 'Bill Gates & the Borg': individualism and collectivism in the workplace
• Workplace dynamics
• Potential cross cultural communication issues
• Multicultural teamwork: managing a diverse workforce
• Barriers to cultural diversity in the workplace
• Working globally: preparing people for international work
• Culture shocks
• Travel and international etiquette