Acknowledge intersectionality and cultural diversity. By actively recognizing and celebrating differences through inclusive practices like observing diverse holidays, workplaces can showcase their commitment to embracing various cultural perspectives and traditions. Organizations can enhance cultural awareness and empathy among employees by offering educational programs that provide insights into different customs, traditions, and worldviews. Support professional development opportunities by contributing to employees’ continuing education. The more they know the happier they are and the more productive they are as employees. Make sure your leadership team reflects diversity as well by hiring and promoting diverse candidates.

First and foremost, take the time to get to know them. Learn about their skills and backgrounds and then pair them up with other team members which will complement and enhance those skills. Underutilization and a lack of cohesion are two of the biggest moral killers in my experience. By having team members work together to build the team itself, you promote an environment of cooperation, collaboration, and a sense of unity that will last. Everyone has a part to play in team development, so let them do their part, offer assistance and guidance when necessary and always encourage team members to succeed and fail as a team so they may learn and grow as a team.

It is important to include an awareness session right at the beginning of the trainee program. Our company runs a three-day Respect initiative for apprentices and trainees where they are given input on unconscious biases, respect and inclusion. On the final day, they are also given the safe space to share any unpleasant experiences they may have had. This in the past has always help empower the participants and make them feel that their voices count and that they are heard. The group agree on ground rules for communication and interaction. Being part of the process helps accountability.