The Importance of Cultural Values Assessment in Employee Diversity Training

The Importance of Cultural Values Assessment in Employee Diversity Training

Diversity in the workplace is not only a legal requirement, but it is also beneficial for companies’ overall success and growth. In today’s globalized world, workforces include people from different racial, ethnic, and cultural backgrounds. Thus, it is critical for companies to create a working environment that values and embraces diversity. One of the most important aspects of diversity training is cultural values assessment to better understand how to create a culture of inclusivity.

What are Cultural Values?

Cultural values are essentially what people in a particular group value and hold as important. These values are based on a range of factors including, but not limited to, customs, traditions, beliefs, and behaviours. Every person has different cultural values, and these values impact how they approach work, interact with others, and make decisions. Cultural values are often deeply ingrained, so, to create a diverse and inclusive culture in a company, understanding these values is crucial.

Why is a Cultural Values Assessment Important in Diversity Training?

Conducting a cultural values assessment is key to developing an effective diversity training programme in a company. It helps to understand the cultural characteristics and differences of employees, which inform training and communication strategies. Cultural values assessments can involve a range of activities, such as surveys, interviews, focus groups, and observation. The assessment results can inform tailored diversity training programs that align with the values of the employees. A company that values diversity understands that a one-size-fits-all approach is not effective in promoting inclusivity.

A cultural values assessment ensures that diversity training is relevant and comprehensive. It helps to avoid assumptions, stereotypes, and generalizations which can damage interpersonal relationships and create barriers to effective communication. Conducting this assessment allows an organization to identify and address biases that may be present in their current company culture. Understanding the cultural values of employees makes it easier to create a culture that is welcoming to all. Employees feel valued and respected, which increases their satisfaction and productivity.

Examples of the Importance of Cultural Values Assessment

One of the most well-known examples of the need for cultural values assessment in diversity training is in the case of Starbucks. In 2018, the coffee company was forced to close over 8,000 stores across the US to conduct anti-bias training after the arrest of two Black men at a Philadelphia store. The event sparked outrage and a significant drop in Starbucks’ stock price, prompting the company to take action. The company conducted a cultural values assessment to customize their training programmes to suit the employees better. Since then, Starbucks has implemented various policies and internal programs to foster inclusivity in their stores.

Another example is from Bridgewater Associates, a Connecticut-based investment management firm. The company has a unique approach to diversity training, emphasising individual feedback and candid conversations about any issues people have with one another. The company’s founder, Ray Dalio, has said that their approach is based on a belief in Radical Transparency. Bridgewater’s Diversity and Inclusion team reviews evaluations and tracking data and trains managers to speak directly with employees about their performance and other issues.

Conclusion

Cultural values assessment is an essential aspect of diversity training in a modern workplace. While diversity training is becoming increasingly common, a successful program must reflect the employees’ values, beliefs and behaviours. Understanding the cultural values of employees ensures that training programmes are customized to contribute to the creation of a diverse and inclusive workplace. Companies that take this issue seriously will reap the benefits of a more inclusive and productive organizational culture. A cultural values assessment requires ongoing effort, but it is critical to the success of the diversity and inclusion training programs.