How to Use Schwartz Cultural Values to Foster Diversity and Inclusion in the Workplace

The world today is more diverse than ever before, and it’s important for companies to foster a culture of inclusivity in the workplace. This is where the concept of the Schwartz Cultural Values comes into play. Created by the social psychologist, Dr. Shalom Schwartz, these values can help organizations understand how culture impacts people and how to achieve inclusivity in the workplace.

Power Distance

The first cultural value to consider is power distance. It refers to the extent to which people in a society accept that power is distributed unequally. This can be seen in hierarchical structures where managers have more power than their subordinates do. To foster diversity and inclusivity in the workplace, companies need to reduce the power distance between managers and employees. It’s essential to create an environment where everyone feels valued and respected, regardless of their position.

Individualism

The second cultural value is individualism, which refers to the degree to which people in a society prioritize personal achievements and interests over those of the group. To promote inclusivity, companies need to acknowledge and celebrate the diversity of their employees. This can be achieved by recognizing individual contributions and strengths, and by encouraging teamwork to achieve common goals.

Masculinity

The third cultural value is masculinity, which refers to the extent to which society values traditional male traits such as assertiveness, material success, and competition. To promote inclusivity, companies need to recognize the value of feminine traits such as collaboration, empathy, and emotional intelligence. This can be achieved by creating opportunities for all employees to share their ideas and perspectives and by encouraging constructive feedback.

Uncertainty Avoidance

The fourth cultural value is uncertainty avoidance, which refers to the degree to which people in a society feel threatened by unknown situations and ambiguity. To promote inclusivity, companies should create a workplace culture that embraces change and accepts different ways of thinking. This can be achieved by encouraging open communication, nurturing creativity, and embracing new perspectives.

Conclusion

In today’s diverse workforce, creating a culture of inclusivity is essential for companies to succeed. The Schwartz Cultural Values offer a framework to help organizations understand how culture impacts people and how to achieve inclusivity in the workplace. By reducing power distance, recognizing individualism, embracing feminine traits, and embracing change, companies can create a workplace culture that values diversity and fosters inclusivity. By doing so, companies can improve employee satisfaction, productivity, and ultimately achieve business success.

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