Introduction
We live in a world that is made up of different cultures, religious affiliation, personalities, and genders and generations (age group); therefore, it would be impossible for everyone to act, behave and think the same. It is essential for organizations to recognize and foster diversity and inclusion. In order to be effective as a group and work harmoniously to reach the common goal, it is important that group members communicate. The lack of diversity within an organization can make the work environment very challenging and create obstacles that prevent group members from communicating effectively. There are quite a few benefits associated with fostering diversity and inclusion in group setting. This paper will examine the advantages associated with gender, generational and cultural diversity in groups such as increased productivity, motivation, moral and better decision making.
Gender and diversity
There always seem to be a battle of the sexes between men and women in the workplace where the communication style for men is to be aggressor and asserter, while the women are more caring, nurturing and comforting. According to Tannen (1995), women are more likely to be considered less confident, not heard in group conversations, and passed over for promotions than men because of a difference in communication style (pg. 13). This type of attitude towards women can cause communication apprehension. Communication apprehension is when group members feel a certain fear or anxiety associated with communication with a person or persons (Engleberg & Wynn, 2013, pg. 57). Although a woman may sometimes not be heard verbally, there are many ways in which women contribute in the workplace. Women can use their communication style as an advantage to build trust and long-term relationships, resolve conflicts and make ethical decisions within groups.
One important element of communication is the ability to interact with group members...