Cultural Awareness develops sensitivity and understanding of other groups.
This usually involves internal changes in terms of attitudes and values. Awareness and sensitivity also refer to the qualities of openness and flexibility developed in relation to others, especially when there are challenges or conflicts. To have cultural awareness you don’t need to be an expert in every culture or have all the answers. Rather, cultural awareness will help you explore cultural issues with more openness and sensitivity. It will also enhance your leadership skills in harnessing the strengths of a diverse workforce."The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy." - Martin Luther King, Jr.
Through Cultural Awareness you can:
- Become more aware of your own cultural heritage.
- Increase your sensitivity and comfort level with people who are culturally different.
- Learn how to become more open and flexible.
- Understand your own biases and assumptions
- Develop cultural sensitivity that transcends stereotypes.
- Reduce cross-cultural misunderstandings preventing higher costs and delays.
- Harness diversity of thoughts to improve collaboration, understanding, and innovation.
Culture affects us in powerful, invisible, and subtle ways. As a leader in a multicultural world you need to understand and be aware of the power of culture. Culture can enrich your organization and contribute to its success or bring conflict and misunderstanding that can be costly. Make sure that culture is a positive force in your organization!
To know more or to engage us for a workshop, presentation, or training, call (302)399-3915 or contact us writing "cultural awareness" on the subject line.