Communicating Effectively in a Diverse Environment: Strategies That Work
- Luiza Dreasher (Iowa State University)
Abstract
Working with culturally diverse individuals can present us with many opportunities, but it also poses many challenges. Learning to communicate effectively with individuals from a diverse cultural background is essential if one is to function effectively in today's multicultural workplace. During this highly interactive session, participants will go through a fun language simulation. They will quickly learn to speak a foreign language (Redundancia) and then experience how communicating in a second language affects our thought patterns and communication styles. The goals of the session are to help participants dismiss common language misconceptions and learn effective techniques they can use to minimize the impact of language differences in the workplace and in social settings.