Course 3, Discussion 5: Diversity, Cultural Differences, and Second Language Learners

@FrenchToastClub A diverse team fuels innovation because of different perspectives. I try to be understanding that my perception of the way things work in my world may be completely different than someone else's when interacting with people in general, but especially with working with people of other cultures or customs or beliefs.

I personally enjoy learning about other cultures and languages. I make a point to try to take my music lessons from teachers in other countries who do not speak any English. I make sure to communicate in their native language. It is NOT easy! I mess things up and say things wrong, even though I'm trying my best! They are all very kind and understanding and patient with me, so I try to extend that kindness and understanding to others who do not speak my native language as a first language.

@FrenchToastClub

Please list some advantages of a diverse team.

As someone who people might say adds diversity to a team (as a female gay poc), I can say that there are so many advantages to having a diverse team. Different worldviews mean different ways of approaching things. Your mission can reach a greater audience or support system, you can have more ideas in order to further the team.

✒️ How can we be respectful of different cultures on 7 Cups?

Correct stereotypes if they’re there. Don’t make cultural “jokes” even if they’re “funny” they could very much offend someone or just be rude, and celebrate. Don’t pretend that you don’t “see” color. Just embrace it and treat it like it’s something beautiful because it really is:)

@FrenchToastClub

✒️ Please list some advantages of a diverse team.

I see nothing but advantage. The document listed many great reasons including the potential for further innovation, the broader range of skill sets leading to creativity and productivity, as well as having more availability as we're all operating from different timezones. Lack of diversity, or cultural homogeny, would be a grave disadvantage to any atmosphere/platform dedicated to serving and uplifting others.

✒️ How can we be respectful of different cultures on 7 Cups?

With patience and empathy for those whose first language isn't english - and offering kind feedback when necessary to help them improve their writing. By respecting the timezones of others, as well. Also, by checking yourself for biases, esp regarding stereotypes, to ensure you're not making any assumptions - whether they're hurtful or not - whether you intended them to be hurtful or not. ♥︎

Also, not mentioned in the document - but, respecting other cultures doesn't look like "we're all the same!" or "we're all human!" - while that's a lovely notion, and may be a good first step to take as it's not untrue, it dulls the beauty of how eclectic and wonderful of the mosaic we all really are standing side-by-side. Not to mention, "We're all human!," - is needlessly simplifying ourselves to our most basic functions of human need and function. How could we reach any depth of human connection with someone else just by knowing that we feel pain and because we need to eat and sleep. We are music. We are style. We are art. We are movement. We are the Kin of those who survived adversity, trauma, oppression, famine, genocide, and war. Maybe we're survivors ourselves. We are the land beneath our feet and the sea on the horizon that brings specific harvests to our region, or we are continuing to eat these foods in the honor of those who come from those lands and seas. Respecting other cultures, rather, looks like "Though we share some similarities that I appreciate, I welcome all the ways in which we are different as our cultures have given us each a gift of varying beliefs, values and experiences that influence our perspective - of ourselves and the world around us- and have granted us unique insights and wisdoms. Over time, I hope my presence allows you to feel safe enough to share yours with me because the more I will learn from you- the more I celebrate, cherish and honor our differences."

@FrenchToastClub

Please list some advantages of a diverse team.

🌹 By working together and not apart we can help fill one another’s weaknesses with strengths…and vice verse. We can offer support and in turn will receive support back.

🌹 More people to get to know and new friends to make!

✒️ How can we be respectful of different cultures on 7 Cups?

🌹 It’s always important to pay attention to different time zones, remember special holidays or events. Being mindful of individual beliefs and possible language barriers. Be respectful of others cultures.

🌹 Good point made by a poster above who said to Be kind to everyone! I couldn’t agree more, this is very important indeed.

@FrenchToastClub

✒️ Please list some advantages of a diverse team.

Advantages of a diverse team include increased creativity and innovation, a wider range of skill sets, the ability to reach and help more people from different cultures and time zones, and the opportunity to learn about different cultures and practices.

✒️ How can we be respectful of different cultures on 7 Cups?

To be respectful of different cultures on 7 Cups, leaders should rise above stereotypes, be respectful of individual beliefs, be mindful of schedules and availability, and consider time zones. Additionally, when communicating with second language learners, leaders should use simpler language, provide context, rephrase messages if needed, be forgiving of tone, and provide constructive feedback to help learners improve.

@FrenchToastClub

When building a thriving and successful team, few things are as important as diversity. Having a team made up of individuals with different backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences can be incredibly beneficial in a number of ways.

One of the most significant advantages of having a diverse team is that it allows for a broader range of ideas and approaches to problem-solving. When team members come from different backgrounds and have different ways of looking at things, they can bring unique insights and solutions to the table. This can lead to increased creativity and innovation and better outcomes for the team and the organization.

Another significant benefit of diversity is that it can help teams better understand and serve a diverse customer base. This especially pertains to 7 Cups and the support this platform offers. By having team members who represent different cultures, ethnicities, and backgrounds, organizations can gain a deeper understanding of the needs and preferences of their members. This can help 7 Cups have listener member relationships with more awareness, connections based on shared experiences and knowledge of local supports that meet the needs of a broader range of people.

Beyond these practical benefits, diversity can also help to create a more inclusive and welcoming workplace culture. When team members feel their unique perspectives and experiences are valued and respected, they are more likely to be engaged and productive. This can lead to higher levels of morale and job satisfaction, as well as improved retention rates. Additionally, a diverse team can help to break down barriers and stereotypes, creating a more harmonious and collaborative work environment for everyone.

Overall, there are many reasons why diversity is essential for building successful teams and organizations. By embracing and celebrating differences, we can create more robust, innovative, and inclusive workplaces that benefit everyone involved.

When interacting with others on 7 Cups, it's essential to remember that everyone comes from different cultural backgrounds. To respect these differences, it's important to listen actively and without judgment and avoid making assumptions or stereotypes based on someone's cultural identity. Additionally, it's important to be open-minded and curious about different cultures and to ask questions respectfully if you're unsure about something. Remember that we're all here to support each other, regardless of our differences.

Happy to say as a Canadian, diversity training has been a regular part of my studies, employment and everyday life :)

Thanks for reading and supporting me through this program, everyone!

@FrenchToastClub

✒️ Please list some advantages of a diverse team.

There are many different advantages to having a diverse team - coverage of multiple different languages, time zones, a holidays as well as bringing different opinions and ways to view things to the table.

✒️ How can we be respectful of different cultures on 7 Cups?

We can learn about different cultures and try to understand and see things from their point of view or at the very least try not to push our beliefs onto them. There are societal norms in every different region and while they don't fit everyone in that region they are usually influenced by what is popular in that area. So, while here in America a lot of people don't worry about what their parents think of their partner (or don't worry as much) other cultures it is the norm that if parents don't approve you aren't with that person. Different religions may not be for us, but if you study different cultures and different religions they all have some beautiful customs that everyone can appreciate even if they don't practice them.

✒️ Please list some advantages of a diverse team.

World-encompassing.

Eye opening.

More ways to make connections.

Richness of cultural, language, tradition differences

✒️ How can we be respectful of different cultures on 7 Cups?

Truly listen.

Don't make assumptions about cultural, family, language, or traditional beliefs.

Share ourselves to the point the other knows we are trust worthy.

Respect we are all survivors.

@FrenchToastClub

✒️ Please list some advantages of a diverse team.

A diverse team always for a diverse range of ideas. This means that there's a mentor and listener for everyone on 7Cups!

✒️ How can we be respectful of different cultures on 7 Cups?

By asking insightful questions and apologizing if a mistake was made.