Diversity is foundational for modern society because most individuals live in a globalized world and frequently engage in intercultural communication. Indeed, in developed countries, every person has a broader space for safe self-disclosure in their cultural, gender, and ethical perspectives, which helps reduce uncertainty and improve relationships (Hamilton et al., 2019). This paper aims to discuss diversity and how it applies to a professional and personal context.
The most significant aspect learned about diversity is how it enriches interpersonal communication and how crucial to address it in the workplace and personal life. In a professional context, teams with members with distinct backgrounds are proven to be more successful because of their capability to make decisions based on various perspectives (Bechervaise, 2018). Moreover, working with colleagues of different ages, races, gender, and social status is crucial for overcoming cultural barriers in communication with clients and daily life.
From a personal perspective, diversity positively changes how individuals perceive their uniqueness and help understand how cultural, racial, or social backgrounds influence decision-making and value formation. For instance, intercultural communication becomes productive and successful when distinct values are equally considered and respected (Goman, 2011). Such interaction provides participants with perspectives and opinions they could not make because of the limits built by their backgrounds and biases. Thus, in a personal context, diversity enables people to question their worldviews, expand their boundaries, become more self-aware, and develop a better understanding of others’ actions.
The modern tendency to emphasize the importance of diversity in societies is beneficial for humanity. Globalization resulted in an expanse of intercultural communication, and learning to understand and respect others’ values and backgrounds is essential for avoiding conflicts and building sustainable relationships. In a professional context, diversity helps develop workable strategies that consider different aspects, while from a personal perspective, it enables individuals to analyze their values and respect others.
References
Bechervaise, C. (2018). 5 ways to overcome cultural barriers in the workplace. Takeitpersonelly.
Goman.C. K. (2011). How culture controls communication. Forbes.
Hamilton, C., Creel, B., Kroll, T. (2019). Communicating for success ( 2nd ed.). Taylor & Francis.