Diversity training is a program that aims to create a positive work environment by teaching people how to work together effectively despite their differences. It can help reduce prejudice and discrimination and increase awareness. appreciation, and skills needed to work with diverse cultural backgrounds.
In a time when social and racial justice movements have reignited conversations around diversity, organizations should be more committed than ever before to creating diverse and inclusive workplaces. These environments empower employees, improving productivity, innovation, problem-solving, and the bottom line.
While we understand that the words “diversity,” “equity,” and “inclusion” can sometimes feel like a list of buzzwords, understanding the five main types of diversity training in the workplace is important.
Every organization should focus on each of these five topics for effective diversity training in the workplace. We will explore the main components of diversity and inclusion courses, and how you can implement them.
1. Workplace Diversity Training
Equity is achieved when you are committed to fair treatment, access, opportunity, and investment for all employees. Striving for equity in your workplace involves identifying and eliminating any barriers that have prevented the full participation of all groups, while acknowledging these historically underserved and underrepresented groups.
Inclusion means that people or groups who are traditionally excluded share power and have equal access to opportunities and resources at your organization. By training your staff on these ideals, you create a positive work culture where everyone can be productive and collaborate.
Another type of diversity training in the workplace is unconscious bias. Also known as implicit bias, it focuses on beliefs one may have about social stereotypes. Many people don’t realize they have personal biases and unconsciously use them to make quick judgments about others. Unconscious bias can cause significant harm, especially in the workplace. The key to managing unconscious bias training is helping your staff recognize their biases and how to avoid them.
Other types of diversity training in the workplace include microaggressions, subtle slights, or insults. They can convey hostile, derogatory, or negative messages related to someone’s race, gender, age, sexual orientation, etc. While not always intentional, they are detrimental. Microaggressions training provides staff with the skills to avoid these biases and respond effectively.
4. Cultural Competency Training
Creating a workplace committed and knowledgeable about diversity, equity, and inclusion can be challenging. However, building an inclusive environment allows diverse employees to interact more comfortably, regardless of their faith, race, gender, socioeconomic status, or gender identity. The goal is always to improve how your staff works together while removing any barriers to inclusivity.
5. Religious Sensitivity Training
We live in a diverse world with many different religions. Spirituality is an area where employees might hesitate to discuss their beliefs or needs with an employer. Providing your staff with training on this sensitive and important topic is important.
Final thoughts
With these tools, you can create a successful diversity training program. These five types of diversity training in the workplace are critical to any DEI initiative. By ensuring that your organization is a safe place for everyone to speak up, you contribute to making the world a better place. Try out our Microlearning to get started.
Diversity Training FAQs
What is diversity skills training?
Diversity skills training is a structured educational program to enhance individuals’ understanding and appreciation of different cultures, backgrounds, and perspectives within a workplace or community. It involves teaching skills that foster an inclusive environment, such as effective communication, cultural competence, conflict resolution, and unconscious bias mitigation. This training helps participants recognize and value diversity, improving teamwork and productivity by promoting respect and empathy among diverse groups.
What are the goals of diversity training?
The goals of diversity training are to create a more inclusive and equitable workplace where all employees feel valued and respected, regardless of their background. It aims to raise awareness about the benefits of diversity and the negative impacts of discrimination and bias. Diversity training strives to equip employees with the knowledge and skills to interact effectively and respectfully with colleagues from diverse backgrounds. It also seeks to reduce workplace conflicts and enhance overall employee satisfaction and retention by promoting a culture of inclusion and mutual respect.
What are the three components of diversity training?
The three main components of diversity training typically include awareness building, skill development, and behavioral change. Awareness building focuses on educating employees about the types of diversity and the systemic issues that can lead to inequality. Skill development aims to equip employees with the tools to interact respectfully and inclusively with everyone, regardless of their background. Behavioral change focuses on implementing and sustaining new habits that foster a culture of inclusivity.
Why is diversity important in training?
Diversity is important in training because it prepares employees to work in a multicultural environment, enhancing team dynamics and problem-solving abilities. It also helps to fight prejudice and discrimination, fostering a more equitable workplace. That’s why diversity training not only creates a more welcoming environment but also helps organizations attract and retain talent from varied backgrounds.