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Monday, January 23, 2012

Equality and Diversity Training: Discover the Basics Here

By Ruth Williams


The aim of equality and diversity training is to create awareness and encourage mutual respect among different groups of people on the basis of race, religion, gender, sexuality and other protected characteristics. This training is most often offered through an employer or trade union, but can also be offered through various other groups, organisations and committees. Training is an effective way of getting people to understand how their words and actions can affect other people that they work with. Training should apply to all employees and management.

Equality defined is the equitable treatment of all members of a workforce or community. On the other hand, diversity has taken on a number of meanings, it retains the principal of offering opportunities to all individuals within a sector or community. The reasons for training can range from concerns over sexual harassment and other discriminatory behaviours to increasing an organisation's ability to reach a previously inaccessible market segment.

Equality and diversity training encourages individuals to consider and respect all points of view and promotes respect and tolerance through education and understanding. A better understanding of different cultures and beliefs can be achieved through training which bodes well for future international business dealings.

Increased awareness of diversity related issues can avoid inadvertently disrespecting international clients through ignorance. Having training programs in place provides a safe haven for employees to voice any concerns they may have. The workforce are informed of procedures of recognising and reporting abuse and harassment. In order to make the whole process effective, managers and supervisors are trained how to deal with instances of harassment with confidentiality and care.

Effective training is a lengthy process that should occur over the long-term, with continued reinforcement of the learned information. The training requirements may vary depending on who it is aimed at, the inclusion of role play can help create a better understanding. A comprehensive training program should include training for everyday communication as well as conflict resolution policies and plans.

Equality and diversity training can touch on sensitive issues and can carry heavy legal implications. For that reason, training is usually conducted by trained specialists with the ability to maintain an emotional detachment from the raised issues. Training facilitators may be outsourced or the alternative is to train an individual within the company who can then carry out the training requirements. Human resource managers may provide training to ensure employees understand the laws concerning workplace discrimination and equal opportunity. To make sure that all employees understand what is required, the employer may make the training compulsory.




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1 comment:

  1. It’s important for organizations to offer some type of diversity training to help their employees deal with potentially difficult situations. Diversity training can help employees avoid harassing and disrespectful behaviors, creating a healthy environment for everyone, with no costly lawsuits.

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