Managing Diversity in the Workplace

The aim of this one-day programme is to develop the skill of managing diversity in managers as a key leadership skill in order to ensure an ethos of acceptance and understanding is an integral part of their business. The course will cover the following areas:

1. Introduction - this module gives the facilitator an opportunity to get to know the group, explore their perceptions of diversity and to establish what issues/fears may exist for the participants when dealing with diversity issues.
2. Stereotypes, Prejudice and Racism - During this session the effects of stereotyping will be explored. Definitions of prejudice, discrimination and racism will also be introduced at this stage, and statistics regarding their prevalence will be outlined. The group will conduct an exercise in which they are challenged to recognise discrimination and racism and develop mitigation strategies.
3. Diversity & Culture - This module will outline the definition of Diversity and will introduce the concept of Cultural Value Dimensions. The participants will conduct case studies in which they will identify cultural factors that impact on behaviours and work styles.
4. Managing Intercultural Conflict - This module will explore the concept of conflict management in relation to Diversity. The session will include an overview of bullying and harrassment in the workplace, outlining some key definitions, understanding of processes and unacceptable behaviour. Participants will be given an opportunity to identify potential intercultural conflict situations in their role and will develop an action plan to competently deal with these situations.
5. Equality Legislation - This module of the programme will provide an overview of current legislation (Equal Status Act, 2000-2004 and Employment Equality Act, 1998-2004) and an exploration of the nine grounds that outlaw discrimination. This module will examine case studies that went before the Equality Tribunal in order to implement the session's key learning points.
6. Managing Diversity in the Workplace - This module aims to identify prevalent issues that may arise within a workplace environment. It will focus on the practical aspects of diversity and how this can be transferred to the work environment. Focus will be placed on diversity within the company (colleagues, staff, employees). This module will use case studies to highlight the issues an organisation needs to consider when implementing a Diversity Management policy. The module will also highlight the business case for Diversity Management, and the difference between equal opportunities and diversity management.

 After completing this programme, participants will be able to:

• Recognise their own implicit attitudes and beliefs and examine how these effect their behaviours and actions
• Recognise cultural value dimensions and understand how these may affect a person's communications style, work preferences, interpersonal relationships and attitude towards conflict
• Understand the definitions of stereotyping, prejudice, discrimination and racism, and recognise the effects it has on the individual and the organisation
• Outline a strategy to manage intercultural conflict effectively
• Demonstrate knowledge of the relevant Equality legislation
• Identify best practices in other organisations and understand the concept of Diversity Management