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Diversity in Groups

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Module Five: Diversity in Groups
Eli Neff
ITT Technical Institute

The modern day business model depends on many different factors in order to be successful. One of the most important factors in both internal and external business affairs is the ability to effectively communicate within different cultures, also known as intercultural communication. Intercultural communication happens when two groups or individuals from different backgrounds come together to communicate (Lanqua Team). With the growing amount of diversity in the workplace, intercultural communication is becoming more and more important when leading a business.
Globalization
With the invention of the internet, businesses across the globe are finding it easier and easier to communicate with other non-domestic businesses in order to strengthen business ties and reach out to foreign consumers. Networking and the commercialization of modern day means of communication are sending employees and entrepreneurs across continents, not only increasing international trade but cultural exchange as well. However, sometimes an increase in diversity can cause a decrease tolerance. In 2014 over 30,000 charges were filed in the workplace for race-based discrimination, over 26,000 for sex-based discrimination, and over 8,000 for pregnancy-based discrimination. The stereotypes that some individuals in the workplace hold can lead to discrimination and therefore lowering the effectiveness of a business team.
Unlearning Prejudice Learning to be more tolerant of others requires personal introspection, looking at your core values and questioning why you believe in certain stereotypes and allow them to view an entire group a certain way. First, admitting that you are prejudiced is the most important step to learning how to be more tolerant of diversity. Admitting that you have discriminatory tendencies,

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