Discussion of Working in Diverse Groups & Developing Cultural Competence

  • What is cultural competence?

Cultural competence can be defined as a kind of measurement applied to assessment of the proper use of cross-cultural knowledge, skills, and attitudes in a diverse working environment. This concept is associated with an individual’s ability to provide an adequate response to cultural differences that can be found in a diverse working environment. Actually, cultural competence is one of the key aspects that  should be considered by employers while selecting the proper candidates for the positions within their companies. Cultural competence requires an individual to demonstrate his/her awareness of cultural identity and express positive opinions on cultural difference in diverse groups, complying with the established cultural standards and ethical norms.

  • How is cultural competence advantageous in the workplace?

Cultural competence is advantageous in the workplace because employees have an opportunity to share  their ideas, participate in decision making and problem solving practices and communicate effectively. Cultural competence supports the spread of cultural diversity in the workplace, which requires hiring people from diverse cultural backgrounds. In addition, cultural competence contributes to the growth of the company’s productivity through enhanced employee performance. Cultural competence helps the company to maintain a competitive advantage. Culturally diverse employees are aware of the need for establishing cooperation and fostering ongoing training to achieve positive outcomes in their work. They demonstrate high morale and self-esteem. Through enhanced communication, culturally diverse employees can promote creative thinking and share innovative ideas. 

  • What two or three strategies can you use to develop cultural competence?

There are two effective strategies that I can use to develop cultural competence. First of all, I can learn more about other cultures, using various academic sources, books, encyclopedia, etc. I can study the traditions and customs of other cultural groups, placing emphasis on their individual characteristics, language, values, beliefs, communication styles, etc. This strategy is effective because it gives me an opportunity to find much important information about diverse cultures and apply it in practice. Secondly, I can travel much in order to visit other countries and observe their cultural traditions. I can participate in their cultural events, festivals, concerts, exhibitions and shows. This strategy allows me being closer to other cultures and learning more about people I meet in the countries I visit. Hence, these two strategies are important in developing cultural competence. 

  • What strategies can you use to become more at ease with differences and diversity?

There are several strategies I can use to become more at ease with differences and diversity. First of all, I can improve my communication skills in order to avoid any barriers to open communication in the workplace. I will be able to deal with cultural differences and cultural diversity in the diverse working environment without any conflicts or misunderstandings. Secondly, I can improve my cultural awareness through training. For example, I can participate in special programs aimed at enhancing  cultural competence. This strategy is useful because it helps to establish close relationships with culturally diverse groups (e.g. racial and ethnic minority groups). These programs are designed by psychologists to help people in overcoming cultural and linguistic barriers. Undoubtedly, this form of training helps to improve the quality of work in culturally diverse groups.

  • What does your ideal workplace look like? How would you like to be treated? How should you treat others?

My ideal workplace looks like a home. It is a place which guarantees comfort and stability. I believe that an ideal workplace should be created by common efforts of culturally diverse employees. It is critical that all employees recognize that they share common interests and direct their efforts to the best decisions, which should be made to address the needs of both the company and employees. I would like to be treated equally because inequality promotes distrust and conflicts. I should treat others based on the established cultural standards and ethical norms. In other words, I should never humiliate them or oppress them. For example, I should assist non-English speaking employees and express my own views on their successes and failures in order to encourage them to learn English. In general, I should be culturally competent in order to promote positive attitudes toward others. My cultural awareness will help me to apply my knowledge, skills and experience to support a culturally diverse working environment.

The terms offer and acceptance. (2016, May 17). Retrieved from

[Accessed: March 28, 2024]

"The terms offer and acceptance." freeessays.club, 17 May 2016.

[Accessed: March 28, 2024]

freeessays.club (2016) The terms offer and acceptance [Online].
Available at:

[Accessed: March 28, 2024]

"The terms offer and acceptance." freeessays.club, 17 May 2016

[Accessed: March 28, 2024]

"The terms offer and acceptance." freeessays.club, 17 May 2016

[Accessed: March 28, 2024]

"The terms offer and acceptance." freeessays.club, 17 May 2016

[Accessed: March 28, 2024]

"The terms offer and acceptance." freeessays.club, 17 May 2016

[Accessed: March 28, 2024]
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