Think back to the early 2000s. We wouldn’t have imagined that devices such as cell phones or computers would have the option to host a Zoom call where we can interact face-to-face with someone miles apart in the comfort of our homes. The only way of communication was through text messages and voice calls.
Never mind the video calls; one wouldn’t have imagined that working remotely would be a thing. Would you have ever thought that working as a virtual assistant would be as big a deal as it is today? And who would’ve thought that people from different parts of the world would come together- to work together?
Not only that, companies are now hiring people with different cultures, languages, and beliefs. But how has this come to be? Let’s first talk about what multiculturalism is before we understand The Importance Of A Multicultural Environment.
What does multiculturalism in the workplace mean?
Culture forms us; it is the source of our beliefs, impacts our behavior, and gives us our identity. When explaining cultural diversity in the workplace, it refers to including people from various backgrounds, races, sexual orientations, and political perspectives. The word cultural diversity promotes an inclusive environment where people from varied backgrounds join together to work as a team.
As a multicultural company, it is incredible to have colleagues from all over the world. We have team members from Argentina, Mexico, El Salvador, Honduras, Colombia, and South Africa here at Job Duck. This is why we want to give you five reasons why we believe that working in a multicultural workplace is one of the best opportunities to have in a company:
Improved Creativity And Competitiveness
Companies require new ideas and concepts to remain competitive. When everyone in a company comes from the same background, they’re more likely to share similar views. Working in a diverse company means that you’ll be able to bring fresh ideas to solve problems as you have your own unique way of thinking, operating, and making decisions to gain a competitive advantage. More solutions will emerge from different and diverse minds coming together and working together. In other words, you’ll broaden your creativity. Companies that value diversity in the workplace motivate all of their employees to achieve their full potential.
Additionally, people from a variety of backgrounds can advise their company on the best ways to expand their customer bases. Employees who can communicate in various languages and are familiar with the cultural norms of international markets can be critical to a company’s success.
“Research on creativity and innovation has been consistent in showing the value of exposing individuals to experiences with multiple perspectives and worldviews. It is the combination of these various perspectives in novel ways that result in new ideas popping up.” – Forbes
Developing Your Skills By Being Treated Fairly
When working in a multicultural environment, companies expect you to give it your all with the skills you have. A diverse workplace is one in which all employees, regardless of gender, appearance, age, ethnicity, physical ability, sexual orientation, religious beliefs, or other factors, have equal rights and opportunities. You’ll benefit from freedom, and when you make mistakes, you’ll be able to grow in your field as the company is helping you correct them and not attacking you on a personal level, as the criticism will only be to help you develop your skills. Working in a diverse company means that you’ll be treated fairly and with respect, motivating you to become the best version of yourself.
Increase Productivity
You can develop your talents and skills in a culturally diverse workplace. Those with a diverse range of ideas and expertise can learn from a larger group of colleagues. According to a study by mybusiness, organizations with a culture of diversity can also help improve problem-solving skills, increase happiness, and even productivity. This spirit of innovation and encouragement to contribute can drive business success in an environment where all voices are heard. When employees feel included, they’ll be more productive by responding with passion to any task at hand. Working at a company where you have a voice can only benefit you in working as hard as you can- not to disappoint those who are always willing to listen to you.
Flexibility And Personal Growth
Being part of an international team is like going on a daily exchange program. Working in a diverse company exposes you to new cultures while working together, significantly impacting your personality and mindset. Expectations and prejudices must be set aside when adapting to new situations and challenges. This means you’ll be able to initiate deep personal growth by developing a more open mind and becoming more flexible. You will broaden your way of thinking and have the ability to be tolerant and committed to cooperation. You will develop a never-give-up attitude and feel the satisfaction of your personal growth.
Learn A New Language
A multicultural working environment also has benefits for our personal lives. Being in a workplace where your international colleagues become your friends, you can be motivated to learn how to speak each other’s languages. Sooner or later, you will start to catch on to phrases and words that your colleagues are using. There will be some new words to learn every day, so if you have always wanted to learn a new language, take this opportunity to expand your knowledge! Not only will this be something to tick off that bucket list, but it will also definitely strengthen the diversity in your workplace.
Now, the importance of a multicultural environment.. is, well, very valuable. Coming from different backgrounds and working together can only lift a company’s spirit and help it achieve its greatest goals. Do you believe that a diverse company is a good thing, or do you see a negative impact? Let us know in the comment section below, as we would love to hear your opinion.
We hope you enjoyed this week’s blog, and we hope to see you again. If you would like to become part of our multicultural company, click HERE to apply today!
As always, stay safe!
The Job Duck Team
