WORKPLACE DIVERSITY

Presented by:Pamela J. Randolph, MS Philander Smith

College

Workplace Diversity Defined

The unique background and variable differences of employees which collectively impact

organizational effectiveness

Differences

Fam

ily

Neighborhoods

Business/Workplace

Community

Sch

ool

Politics

Religion

Peers

• Hinder Productivity

• Create Conflicts

• Lead to Communications Gap

Potential Downsides of Diverse Organizations

• Improve Work Systems and Processes• Become more Creative and Innovative• Increase Employee Satisfaction• Build Diversity Awareness

Potential Opportunities of Diverse Organizations

Awareness means the recognition of what is important to you as an individual and your:

Self Awareness

Values

Perceptions

Expectations

Societal TraditionsOrganizational Norms

StereotypingPrejudice

Potential Obstacles to a Diverse Workplace

1. Recognize and Understand the Differences2. Create the Appropriate Message3. Deliver the Message4. Obtain the Feedback

The Diversity Communication Planner

*What do I know about the person, especially motivators

*How will the person respond to the communication

*What questions might this person ask, and why are those questions important

Recognize and Understand the Differences

*Explanation of the situation*Explanation as to why the current state is no

longer acceptable or adequate*Provide the WIIFM*Discussion of what specifically must change*Emphasize your support*Address specific concerns

Create the Appropriate Message to Communicate

*Decide the overall tone of your delivery*Set date and time for communicating the

message*Determine the approach that the other

person will be most comfortable with

Deliver the Message

*Has the person really accepted your position

*Has the person been influenced by you personally or by the rewards, consequences, or both

Obtain the Feedback

Conflict Resolution Styles

Avoider

Cooperator

Competitor

Adapter

*Acknowledge that conflict exists*Identify the “Real” conflict*Hear all points*Together explore ways to resolve conflict*Gain agreement and responsibility*Follow-up and review

Steps to Conflict Resolution

Pamela J. Randolph Pamela is a Licensed International Certified Alcohol & Drug Counselor registered (LADAC ICADC ICCDPD GCDF OWDS) with the Arkansas Certification Board of Alcohol & Drug Abuse Counselors as well as a College Professor/Field Trainer. Professional degrees were received from the following schools including a Bachelor of Arts degree from Philander Smith College (Home Economics/Sociology/Business Administration), Master of Science (Addiction Studies and Counseling) degree from the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, and this great girl is currently pursuing a PhD degree from Texas Woman's University (Family Studies with an emphasis in Adolescent Counseling.