"Diversity" and "inclusion" have become buzzwords in the workplace in recent years. However, simply hiring individuals from different backgrounds is not enough. To truly foster an inclusive workplace, cultural competence must be present. Cultural competence refers to the ability, willingness and openness to understand, appreciate, and interact effectively with people from different cultures. It is a key component of creating a safe and equitable workplace. Cultural competence also involves acknowledging and valuing the differences between individuals, as well as understanding how those differences can impact communication, work styles, and interactions.
In a culturally competent workplace, employees feel respected and valued, regardless of their cultural background. They are able to bring their whole selves to work and their differences are valued. To achieve this, organisations should consider cultural competence as part of their diversity and inclusion initiatives. Here are some ideas organisations can take to promote cultural competence in the workplace:
1. Provide Cultural Competence Training
One of the best ways to promote cultural competence is through training. Organisations can provide training to employees at all levels, from entry-level to senior management. This training could focus on:
implicit and explicit biases,
thoughtful communication
clarifying team and organisational values
harnessing curiousity and self-reflection
developing team empathy when under pressure
2. Create a Diverse and Inclusive Environment
Creating a diverse and inclusive environment is crucial to promoting cultural competence, and it starts at the foundation of the organisation. Diversity, equity and inclusion policies allow a framework for intiatives and guides the organisation's values. It's important to include and invite people who are directly affected by these policies to consult on their development. After all, it defeats the purpose of a DEI approach if one group of people in leadership establishes and implements a framework about another group of people. Example, able-bodied leadership implementing initiatives for people with disabled bodies.
3. Encourage Open Communication
Open and compassionate communication is key to promoting cultural competence. Effective organisations may facilitate "empathy circles" where employees and those in leadership are not only encouraged to share their "wins" but also their challenges. Employees are encouraged to share their experiences and perspectives, even if they differ from those of others. This can create a more inclusive environment where all voices are heard and valued.
Facilitating open communication can also help to address any misunderstandings or conflicts that may arise in a psychological safe environment. By fostering a culture of openness and understanding, employees can work together more effectively and build stronger relationships.
4. Provide Language Services
Language barriers can be a significant obstacle to cultural competence. Organisations can provide language services, such as translation or interpretation services, to help employees communicate effectively with one another. This can be particularly important for employees who are not fluent in the organisation’s primary language.
Providing language services can also help to ensure that all employees have access to important information and resources. This can create a more inclusive workplace where all employees are able to fully participate and contribute.
5. Recognize and Celebrate Cultural Differences
Finally, organisations could recognise and celebrate the cultural differences among their employees. This can include celebrating holidays and cultural events from different cultures or providing education about different cultural traditions and practices.
Recognising and celebrating cultural differences can help to create a more inclusive workplace where employees feel that their culture is valued and respected. It can also help to break down barriers and promote understanding between individuals from different backgrounds.
Promoting cultural competence is essential to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace. By providing cultural competence training, creating a diverse and inclusive environment, encouraging open communication, providing language services, and recognising and celebrating cultural differences, organisations can create a workplace where all employees feel respected, valued, and able to contribute to their full potential.
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