9.3: Part III- Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
- Page ID
- 36440
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\(\newcommand{\avec}{\mathbf a}\) \(\newcommand{\bvec}{\mathbf b}\) \(\newcommand{\cvec}{\mathbf c}\) \(\newcommand{\dvec}{\mathbf d}\) \(\newcommand{\dtil}{\widetilde{\mathbf d}}\) \(\newcommand{\evec}{\mathbf e}\) \(\newcommand{\fvec}{\mathbf f}\) \(\newcommand{\nvec}{\mathbf n}\) \(\newcommand{\pvec}{\mathbf p}\) \(\newcommand{\qvec}{\mathbf q}\) \(\newcommand{\svec}{\mathbf s}\) \(\newcommand{\tvec}{\mathbf t}\) \(\newcommand{\uvec}{\mathbf u}\) \(\newcommand{\vvec}{\mathbf v}\) \(\newcommand{\wvec}{\mathbf w}\) \(\newcommand{\xvec}{\mathbf x}\) \(\newcommand{\yvec}{\mathbf y}\) \(\newcommand{\zvec}{\mathbf z}\) \(\newcommand{\rvec}{\mathbf r}\) \(\newcommand{\mvec}{\mathbf m}\) \(\newcommand{\zerovec}{\mathbf 0}\) \(\newcommand{\onevec}{\mathbf 1}\) \(\newcommand{\real}{\mathbb R}\) \(\newcommand{\twovec}[2]{\left[\begin{array}{r}#1 \\ #2 \end{array}\right]}\) \(\newcommand{\ctwovec}[2]{\left[\begin{array}{c}#1 \\ #2 \end{array}\right]}\) \(\newcommand{\threevec}[3]{\left[\begin{array}{r}#1 \\ #2 \\ #3 \end{array}\right]}\) \(\newcommand{\cthreevec}[3]{\left[\begin{array}{c}#1 \\ #2 \\ #3 \end{array}\right]}\) \(\newcommand{\fourvec}[4]{\left[\begin{array}{r}#1 \\ #2 \\ #3 \\ #4 \end{array}\right]}\) \(\newcommand{\cfourvec}[4]{\left[\begin{array}{c}#1 \\ #2 \\ #3 \\ #4 \end{array}\right]}\) \(\newcommand{\fivevec}[5]{\left[\begin{array}{r}#1 \\ #2 \\ #3 \\ #4 \\ #5 \\ \end{array}\right]}\) \(\newcommand{\cfivevec}[5]{\left[\begin{array}{c}#1 \\ #2 \\ #3 \\ #4 \\ #5 \\ \end{array}\right]}\) \(\newcommand{\mattwo}[4]{\left[\begin{array}{rr}#1 \amp #2 \\ #3 \amp #4 \\ \end{array}\right]}\) \(\newcommand{\laspan}[1]{\text{Span}\{#1\}}\) \(\newcommand{\bcal}{\cal B}\) \(\newcommand{\ccal}{\cal C}\) \(\newcommand{\scal}{\cal S}\) \(\newcommand{\wcal}{\cal W}\) \(\newcommand{\ecal}{\cal E}\) \(\newcommand{\coords}[2]{\left\{#1\right\}_{#2}}\) \(\newcommand{\gray}[1]{\color{gray}{#1}}\) \(\newcommand{\lgray}[1]{\color{lightgray}{#1}}\) \(\newcommand{\rank}{\operatorname{rank}}\) \(\newcommand{\row}{\text{Row}}\) \(\newcommand{\col}{\text{Col}}\) \(\renewcommand{\row}{\text{Row}}\) \(\newcommand{\nul}{\text{Nul}}\) \(\newcommand{\var}{\text{Var}}\) \(\newcommand{\corr}{\text{corr}}\) \(\newcommand{\len}[1]{\left|#1\right|}\) \(\newcommand{\bbar}{\overline{\bvec}}\) \(\newcommand{\bhat}{\widehat{\bvec}}\) \(\newcommand{\bperp}{\bvec^\perp}\) \(\newcommand{\xhat}{\widehat{\xvec}}\) \(\newcommand{\vhat}{\widehat{\vvec}}\) \(\newcommand{\uhat}{\widehat{\uvec}}\) \(\newcommand{\what}{\widehat{\wvec}}\) \(\newcommand{\Sighat}{\widehat{\Sigma}}\) \(\newcommand{\lt}{<}\) \(\newcommand{\gt}{>}\) \(\newcommand{\amp}{&}\) \(\definecolor{fillinmathshade}{gray}{0.9}\)An organization’s goals of fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) means promoting a culture of belonging and building a supportive climate that welcomes people of every background. Like anti-discrimination regulations in the real estate industry, DEI means that all workers are provided with every opportunity to succeed.
A guide to diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) in the workplace can be found at: https://www.qualtrics.com/experience-management/employee/dei
Welcoming and including a new colleague can make a big difference in their success, and possibly in yours. How do you connect with a new colleague who is of a different race, culture, or ethnic background without inserting micro-aggressions or implicit bias in the conversation? Here are some steps:
● Smile, extend your hand for a handshake and greet the newcomer with a friendly “hello.”
● Do not make assumptions about the person’s background or preferences based on their accent, name, skin color, hair type, dress, or other personal characteristic.
● Introduce yourself and share something of your background. Let the newcomer know that you are available to answer questions or refer them to the correct resource as needed.
● If the newcomer’s name is unusual, ask how to pronounce (or spell) it correctly. Say it a few times (and ask for patience if you need more practice). Never make a racial joke about a name that may sound unfamiliar to you.
● Find something you like about the newcomer, or something you have in common with them, and comment on it.
● Introduce the newcomer to a few of your colleagues and say something welcoming. This is a great time to practice remembering a name!
DEI and Intercultural Communication
Intercultural communication is the exchange of information and ideas between people from different cultural backgrounds. In today's globalized world, where individuals from diverse cultures often interact in both personal and professional settings, understanding the principles and dynamics of intercultural communication is essential for effective communication and successful relationships.
One of the key challenges in intercultural communication is accepting and respecting cultural differences. Culture encompasses a wide range of elements, including language, beliefs, values, customs, norms, and behaviors. These cultural factors influence how people perceive the world, communicate, and interact with others. For example, in some cultures, direct communication is valued and encouraged, while in others, indirect communication and implicit messages are more common. Understanding these cultural differences helps individuals navigate intercultural interactions with sensitivity and respect.
Language is perhaps the most obvious cultural obstacle in communication. Even when individuals share a common language, differences in vocabulary, dialects, and accents can lead to misunderstandings. Additionally, nonverbal communication, such as gestures, facial expressions, and body language, varies across cultures and can convey different meanings. For instance, a gesture that is considered rude or offensive in one culture may be perfectly acceptable in another. Awareness of these nonverbal cues is needed for effective intercultural communication.
Cultural norms regarding hierarchy and power dynamics also influence communication styles. In some cultures, there is a strong emphasis on formalities and respect for authority, while in others, individuals may interact more informally and openly. Understanding these cultural norms helps individuals adjust their communication style accordingly, whether they are speaking with a superior, a peer, or a subordinate. (See the section above on communication styles.)
Furthermore, intercultural communication requires the ability to empathize and see the world from the perspective of others. This involves practicing cultural empathy, which means understanding and appreciating different cultural perspectives, values, and norms without judgment. By adopting an open-minded and curious attitude, individuals can foster trust and build connections across cultural boundaries.
In the workplace, effective intercultural communication is essential for building diverse and inclusive teams, promoting collaboration, and achieving organizational goals. Companies that embrace cultural diversity and promote intercultural competence among their employees are better equipped to navigate global markets, serve diverse customer bases, and foster innovation.
Building Intercultural Communication Skills
To enhance intercultural communication skills, individuals can engage in various practices and strategies. These may include:
1. Cultural awareness training: Participate in workshops or training programs that provide insights into different cultures, communication styles, and cultural norms.
2. Active listening: Be attentive and receptive to others' perspectives, asking clarifying questions, and confirming understanding. (See section on active listening, above.)
3. Flexibility and adaptability: Be willing to adjust your communication style and behavior to accommodate cultural differences.
4. Respect and empathy: Show respect for diverse perspectives and demonstrating empathy for others' cultural backgrounds and experiences.
5. Avoiding stereotypes: Recognize that individuals are unique and complex, and avoiding making assumptions based on cultural stereotypes.
6. Seeking feedback: Actively seek feedback from others, especially from individuals from different cultural backgrounds, to improve communication effectiveness.
In the dynamic world of real estate, where transactions involve buyers, sellers, agents, brokers, lenders, and other stakeholders of worldwide cultures and backgrounds, professionals must possess a high level of emotional intelligence and strong intercultural communication skills. Whether it's understanding the needs and concerns of clients, negotiating deals, or managing relationships, these skills play a vital role in navigating the complexities of the real estate industry.