Topic 2 Challenges of D&I Management
- Theory considers that implicit or unconscious bias happens by our brains making incredibly fast judgements and assessments of people and situations without realizing. It is a psychological process. Our biases are influenced by our background, cultural environment, and personal experiences
Examples of unconscious bias
- Assuming certain good or bad work ethics based on the person’s ethnic or religious belonging
- Assuming that one gender is more stress-resistant than the other
- Assuming lower skills/achievements based on the graduated university
- Understanding of the importance in using the right language when communicating with and about diversity groups – the way to overcome the cultural challenge, is a major step in creating an inclusive work environment.
Inclusive VS Exclusive Language
- The language used by leadership or co-workers is highly influential and creates a model for co-workers and society as a whole.
Words matter!
Organisational challenges
Self-reflection question: Can you think of possible organizational challenges that a company or entity faces that constrain them from adopting a D&I Strategy?
Key steps in overcoming organisational challenges
- Training all employees
- Raising the awareness of various groups
- Raising the understanding that diversity is part of a long-term strategy
- Including all employees
- Finding the right balance global and local perspectives
D&I does not happen overnight – it needs time and commitment!
Examples of D&I Management
- Language skills requirements are too high for tasks that are not necessary.
- People with accents are not invited to job interviews.
- Young LGBT people accept offensive jokes.
- Development of skills in intercultural interaction.
- Use clear and non-discriminatory language.
- Dissemination of information about religious practices / LGBTQI etc.
- Increased accessibility, taking into account the needs of people with disabilities.
- Detection and prevention of discrimination.
- Training seminar on diversity management.
- Job ads that encourage different groups to apply.
- Taking into account the individual needs of different co-workers.
- Treatment of different forms of family and caring relationships.
- Different forms of information and special services for different groups.
