This document discusses the benefits and challenges of cultural diversity in the workplace. It notes that as the U.S. workforce becomes more ethnically diverse, embracing cultural differences will be important for business success. While language barriers and miscommunication can occur, a diverse workforce also brings new ideas, skills, and global knowledge. The document recommends that companies address diversity through education, training, and leadership. Embracing diversity can increase productivity, profitability, and market share.

1. Worldwide
Telecommunications Inc.
Ana Bryant
Shawn Donnelly
Pennie Goodin
Casey Meyer
Geri Rowland
Ashley Walters

2. Introduction
• Cultural Changes in Business
• How Diversity Will Affect Teamwork and
Communication
• How Companies Can Embrace Cultural
Diversity in Their Workforce

3. Cultural Differences
• Pros
– Multiple New Ideas for Solutions to Problems
– Development of Language Skills
– Global Knowledge of New Processes

4. Cultural Differences
• Cons
– Language Barriers
– Miscommunication
– Lack of Communication

5. Teamwork
"Teamwork is the ability to work together
toward a common vision. It is the ability to
direct individual accomplishments toward
organizational objectives. Teamwork is the
fuel that allows common people to attain
uncommon results." (Carnegie, ¶4)

6. Background
• Statistics: EEO-1 Reports
• 1998 Total Employees 41,886,106
Minorities 11,464,318 27%
• 2007 Total Employees 50,322,929
Minorities 17,231,688 34%
• 2050 US Census Bureau Predicts 50% of
Americans Will be of Different Ethnicities

7. Teamwork
Pros
• Creative Thinking
• Unique Strengths
• Speed & Efficiency
Cons
• Opposed to Change
• Conflict
• Trust
• Communication

8. Communication
• Barriers
– Culture
– Language
• Ineffective Communication
– Causes
• Problems in Collaborating
• Problems in Decision-Making
• Effective Communication
– Strategies
• Provide Trainings
• Hold Meetings

9. Embracing Diversity
• Plan of Execution
– Education
– Training
– Implement
– Follow-up
• Participation
• Lead on Competition
• Increase Consumer Base
• Deter Bias
– Expand Knowledge
– Positive Attitude

10. Conclusion
• Between 1998 and 2008 41% of people
entering the workforce will be minorities
• Embrace advantages of diverse workforce to
increase productivity
• Make diversity part of the overall business plan
• Increase profitability

11. References
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