What are some strategies you can use when communicating with a diverse group?
In short, diversity in a workforce is a good thing when it is managed well. So if you are leading multicultural and multilingual teams, you must assess if you can communicate effectively with your employees and if they manage to communicate effectively to one another. Cultural diversity creates well-rounded teams that can better meet overall business goals. However, if they are not handled properly, you will likely never achieve a positive work environment – and, as a consequence, neither a successful business. Show In this article, we will explore the importance of having (and celebrating) a multicultural workforce and how you can stimulate effective communication among co-workers. How to improve communication in a diverse workplace?Here are five important steps that will help you overcome language barriers in your organization: Investing in translation resources and interpretersIn international business environments, linguistic barriers can be a significant issue. If you are working with global teams, you might have noticed that, sometimes, language can step in the way and create all sorts of misunderstandings. To avoid major issues and create a healthier and safer workplace, there are a few basic steps you can take. Start by translating all essential documents, such as security protocols or training manuals. Ideally, these materials should be translated for every language spoken at your organization, so that no one feels left behind. Then, it is also worth considering hiring an interpreter. Having a skilled translator to help you maintain effective communication in the workplace can be a great investment, especially if you regularly work with teams from different backgrounds. By promoting a harmonious, unified approach to working, this professional could deeply change your organization for the better. Offering language training to managers and/or employeesTo improve your multilingual workplace’s overall communication, you should start by examining how effectively your staffing and managing teams communicate within themselves and to each other. If you determine that language is a significant barrier preventing everyone from reaching a better, safer, and most productive workplace, you should consider language training. Emphasizing the importance of listeningCommunication is, as experts say, a two-way street. This means that, besides talking, workers also need to enhance their listening skills. Developing this ability improves the overall communication in the organization, ultimately benefiting the business as a whole. Active listening may seem simple, even passive, but it requires patience and focus, along with new habits. Respecting the cultural diversityIn simple terms, cultural diversity is about respecting and accepting people’s differences and understanding that everyone is unique. In Canadian workplaces, employees with limited English proficiency often feel isolated and unappreciated on a team. To avoid negative feelings and solitude (which often translates into an unsatisfactory work environment and low productivity), it is essential to set ground rules that focus on mutual respect and tolerance. Emotional barriers, taboos, and prejudices must be recognized and settled, as they constitute a barrier to communication and, consequently, relationships. Making the most of a diverse workplaceLike we have already mentioned, a diverse workplace has a lot of benefits. Different perspectives, backgrounds, and opinions contribute a lot to any type of business. As such, an organization that embraces and values difference is on the right path to improve employee engagement, teamwork, and, consequently, overall productivity. Research has shown that workforce diversity is a source of innovation. It allows you to access new markets, develop better work relationships, and explore new ideas and perspectives when it comes to making business. However, it can also bring many challenges to the workplace, especially when it comes to effective communication. Once again, if you think that language training could help you expand and improve your business relationships, don’t hesitate to contact us. Our team of native instructors will be delighted to design a customized plan for your teams! What are your strategies for communicating with a diverse audience?Speaking to Diverse Audiences. Enunciate clearly. ... . Don't speak too fast. ... . Be careful with metaphors. ... . Know the meanings of words outside your native language. ... . Avoid slang, jargon and idiomatic expressions. ... . Be mindful of body language, eye contact and personal space.. What are the 4 types of communication strategies?There are four basic communication styles: passive, aggressive, passive-aggressive and assertive. It's important to understand each communication style, and why individuals use them.
What are the 5 types of communication strategies?Five Types of Communication. Verbal Communication. Verbal communication occurs when we engage in speaking with others. ... . Non-Verbal Communication. What we do while we speak often says more than the actual words. ... . Written Communication. ... . Listening. ... . Visual Communication.. Which strategy should you use when communicating face to face with diverse populations?How to Use Good Communication Skills for Cross-Cultural Diversity. Slow down when you speak. ... . Speak clearly and concisely. ... . Keep it simple. ... . Maintain respect and courtesy for people who come from different cultures. ... . Smile and be open. ... . Avoid slang. ... . Shun humor.. |