It is an ever-changing challenge to balance inclusion and cultural sensitivity with company ethos. In my experience working with employers, some do it better than others. Company ethos tends to track the values or personality of upper management. If there is a generational difference between upper management and non-management personnel, this can create internal insensitivity about what matters. In the case of a younger workforce, cultural sensitivity and inclusion may be at odds with upper management’s focus on productivity and profitability.

This difference in perspectives and values can lead to conflict and dissonance that work and the overall work environment. It also can lead to damaging public commentary about a company on social media channels and in the press that may impact its ability to attract and retain the best talent.

A workplace culture that appreciates and encourages an openness to learn from others and expects employees to respect their colleagues’ points of view can help turn those challenging differences into growth opportunities that will enhance teamwork and job satisfaction.

This piece features in IR Global‘s The Visionaries. Read the full publication here.