Post-9/11 training - Executive Summaries - multiculturalism and employee instruction United States - Brief Article

T+D, Sept, 2002 by Michael D. Lee

Following the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, managers became more aware of the powerful effect of culture on their workforces and the potential for cultural misunderstandings to affect productivity and profitability adversely. In response, companies have changed the way they approach diversity training. Budgets have increased. More attention is being paid to culture and its effect on learning styles. And, perhaps most important, diversity training is finally being separated from liability reduction and linked to retention.

Current shortages of skilled professionals in the United States, as well as an expanding global workforce, have many companies searching abroad for talented workers. With that comes an increased demand for cultural awareness and sensitivity. Though training exists for American workers overseas, little is being done to help immigrants understand the complexities and attitudes of American culture.

Lee examines the progression of diversity training since that tragic September day, calls for increased action at the executive level, and tests your knowledge of diversity awareness.

For complete text, see page 32.

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