Five Essential Strategies to Embrace Culturally Responsiveness

Being responsive to different cultures is an important part of our interactions. It is also very important when we are providing services. Cultural responsiveness gives employees the power to use their own cultural references to gain knowledge, skills, and attitudes. This makes the workplace environment more responsive to different cultures.

Practice One: Acknowledge That Culture Matters

The first step is acknowledging that culture matters. It is important to recognise that we all have different cultural backgrounds and that these cultures influence the way we think, feel, and behave. By recognising the importance of culture, employers can create an environment in which all employees feel valued and respected.

Practice Two: Be Sensitive to Language Needs

It is important to be sensitive to the language needs of employees from different cultural backgrounds. Many employees may not feel comfortable communicating in English, or may not have the required language skills. In such cases, employers should consider providing translation services or offering language classes to employees. This will help employees feel more comfortable in the workplace and will enable them to better contribute to the organisation.

Practice Three: Encourage Employees to Share Their Culture

Encouraging employees to share their culture with others is a great way to promote cultural responsiveness. This can be done through activities such as potluck lunches, where employees bring food from their culture to share with others, or through cultural celebrations such as Reconciliation Week or NAIDOC. This will help employees feel proud of their culture and will also allow others to learn about new cultures.

Practice Four: Promote Inclusion in Decision Making

It is important that all employees feel included in decision-making within the organisation. This can be done by ensuring that employee input is sought on decisions that will affect them, and by providing opportunities for employees to share their ideas and suggestions. By including employees in decision-making, employers will show that they value employee input and are committed to creating an inclusive environment.

Practice Five: Educate Employees on Cultural Responsiveness

Employers should provide employees with training on cultural responsiveness. This will help employees to understand the importance of being responsive to different cultures and will provide them with the skills and knowledge needed to effectively work in a culturally diverse environment. By educating employees on cultural responsiveness, employers can help create a more culturally responsive workplace.

Creating a culturally responsive workplace requires commitment from employers. However, it is essential in order to create an environment in which all employees feel valued and respected. The five practices described above provide a starting point for employers looking to make their workplaces more culturally responsive. By implementing these practices, employers can begin to build a more inclusive workplace where everyone feels welcome.

On-line training can be provided by Jahavel at www.jahavel.com