When it comes to workplace diversity, training is often touted as the solution to one of the most vexing problems a manager faces. But is training really the solution?
Before you answer that, consider the scope of the diversity problem:
Managers are under increasing pressure to produce results. We are told that results are what winners focus on. And while winners are focused on results, they can very easily lose sight of what, or who, causes the results - people. And people are different…or diverse.
So just how diverse is your workforce? Here is one definition that applies to workplace diversity:
“The specific and unique combination of characteristics that differentiates one person or group from another. This may include ethnicity, sexual orientation, employment status, gender, physical and mental disabilities, religious or spiritual beliefs, age, work style, values, and more.”
That’s quite a lot for a busy manager to deal with. In working with groups, we approach this not so much from a ‘training’ perspective, but from an awareness perspective.
This approach allows us to help participants to discover where they are on a continuum:
Knowledge: How much knowledge do I have of these characteristics? Am I working from a position of knowledge or ignorance? Do I possess a stereotypical view of people whoa re different from me? What information do I hold that I can use as factual?
Understanding: Do I really understand how others feel about differences? How can I develop that understanding in me, as a leader, and in my staff?
Acceptance: To what extent do I respect and value the diverse characteristics and behaviours of others?
Behavior: To what extent am I able to interact effectively with others different from myself? What am I doing to help my staff change their behavior?
Yes, training can help people increase their knowledge, improve their understanding, promote acceptance and change behaviors. It’s time to get started...
About Brian Ward
Brian Ward is a Principal in Affinity Consulting, an Edmonton Alberta based consulting practice. He is the author of Lead People...Manage Things. He has over 25 years of experience working with all levels of leaders and teams as a leadership coach, facilitator and consultant. His website is at www.affinitymc.com
He helps leaders deal with the challenges and opportunities of developing diverse workplaces.
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