Understanding The Different Types Of Cultural Diversity In The Workplace

Today, a variety of skill sets, talents, and personalities will be encountered in any given workplace. Teams that are significantly diverse tend to be the strongest. The unique strengths of each individual can be harnessed when teams are balanced by a diverse workforce.

But how do you employ different types of cultural diversity to build an inclusive workforce? Answer: You must invest in DEI training programs to promote acceptance, understanding, and awareness.

To better familiarize yourself with the different types of cultural diversity in today’s organizations, it will help to examine the various types that can frequently be found.

What Are Some Common Types of Cultural Diversity?

From gender to age, racial, and cultural diversity, there are many forms. To build an inclusive, strong team, company leaders must understand the various types of diversity in existence. Here are six basic types of diversity (not all are based specifically on “culture”, per se, but will help develop an inclusive company culture for your organization):

  • Gender Diversity: This doesn’t mean, necessarily mean, an equal number of males and females, but both should be represented.
  • Sexual Orientation: Everyone should feel respected and safe, no matter their sexual orientation.
  • Racial Diversity: The social construct of “race” is different from “ethnicity.”. People who are of another ethnicity may look similar to others, and vice versa.
  • Ethnic Diversity: The bringing together of individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds promotes ethnic diversity and can help your organization appeal to a more expanded client base.
  • Religion: A person should feel comfortable and safe to practice whatever religious beliefs they observe.
  • Skill: This is one of the most crucial aspects for organizations to consider regarding diversity. Individuals with a range of soft skills, education, knowledge, and complementary talents should be hired by organizations.

Additional Diversity Types

The six types of cultural diversity listed above don’t quite complete the picture. Here are three more that may be present, and should be considered, in today’s workplace environments:

  • Neuro-Diversity: Some examples are team members with dyspraxia, dyslexia, autism, ADHD, etc.
  • Disability: Individuals with mental health issues or physical limitations must be taken into account if you’re going to build an inclusive, diverse environment within your organization.
  • Age: Your organization can bring together individuals of varying points of view, work styles, and life experiences when they practice age diversity. This can help improve employee retention, boost engagement and productivity, and foster a sense of acceptance.

In the pursuit of a more effective and cohesive workforce, it’s time for your organization to pursue the different types of cultural diversity needed in the workplace today. It’s time to contact the experts at Tessi Consulting. We offer an array of training program selections— one of which will likely suit your organization’s needs more than another.

For the Best DEI Programs, Hire Tessi Consulting

To advance the diversity, equity, and inclusion of your organization, count on the expertise, training, and coaching provided by the Tessi Consulting team. We can help your company with a strategic DEI plan, Create a sense of inclusion and belonging in your organization, and identify ways in which to better represent your company’s underrepresented demographics. Work with Tessi for the best results!

Experience a company-wide DEI transformation courtesy of our assistance, training, and coaching. Contact us today to get started. You can reach us by phone at 617-564-3331 or send us an email at info@tessiconsulting.com.