PeopleTek Tip - Diversity and Differences

“Commandment number one of any truly civilized society is this:
Let people be different".- David Grayson

When you think about diversity and differences in the work place, what comes to mind? Do you think about race, culture, age, gender, sexual orientation and disabilities?

Do you also think about accents, education, physical size, spiritual orientation, and political preferences? What about leadership skills, traits and behaviors?

Differences are limitless. What's key is our awareness and respect for how these differences strengthen our team and our organization.

WE ALL HAVE BIASES AND FILTERS.

We can improve ourselves and our organization when we:
- Recognize the differences around us
- Create an environment where it's okay to notice what's different
- Provide opportunities for learning about the differences
- Examine biases, assumptions, and stereotypes
- Recognize the impact differences have on attitudes and actions
- Appreciate and utilize what's different

By valuing differences we can:
- Take advantage of and benefit from differing views and solutions
- See the differences that people bring that enhance and strengthen the team and
organization
- View the differences as assets

SKILLED LEADERS:

Manage all kinds and classes of people equitably
Deal effectively with these differences
Hire the most qualified individuals that round out a team
Support equal and fair treatment and opportunity for all (no favoritism!)

"It is not best we should all think alike; it is difference of opinion
that makes horseraces." - Mark Twain

We're here to help!

Jan Mayer-Rodriguez and Michael W. Kublin
www.peopletekcoaching.com
888.565.9555
Learning Leading Succeeding