The existence of any one of the following symptoms may indicate the lack of an inclusive workplace environment:

• Complaints about insensitive comments made or jokes told in the work unit regarding age, gender, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or physical ability.
• Inability to retain members of diverse groups.
• Open conflict between groups or between people from different groups.
• Lack of diversity throughout all levels of the organization.
• Cultural faux pas committed out of ignorance rather than malice.
• Diversity-related blocks in communication that impede work flow.
• Misinterpreting or not understanding directions, leading to mistakes, repeating tasks, and low productivity.
• EEOC suits.
• Feeling of isolation from the work group.
• Perception that one’s strengths and background are not valued for the unique contribution they can make.

Solution: Contact HCS to obtain information on how your employees can participate in a valuable learning experience, and learn about appropriate behaviors and attitudes in the workplace

* Gardenswartz and Rowe