Cultural Diversity in Canada
Our presentation discusses the benefits of cultural diversity in all aspects, however more focused on
what that looks like within virtual teams. We discuss the benefits of culturally diverse teams and the
ways they can prove to be more effective. After watching our presentation one will leave will tips for
successful virtual teams and knowledge about what cultural diversity truly means. Included are many
valuable statistics and facts to showcase the positive effects of virtual teams as well as some challenges
such as discrimination.
Key Research Findings
Cultural diversity is defined as a variety of cultures and ethnicities within a society. It involves race,
nationality, religion, values, customs, gender etc.
It has been surveyed that 19% of female employees have experienced gender-based judgement in the
workplace. In another survey, visible ethnic groups have reported that they have felt their opinions go
unheard in group discussions. As well, 32% of minorities have reported that they feel their careers have
been compromised due to discrimination. In Canada, 3 in 10 visible minorities have reported having
faced discrimination in the workplace.
Diverse teams work together more effectively. They allow for larger extent or knowledge and build
creativity. More diverse teams are more welcoming to new members and have a higher engagement
and performance level than those who are monocultural.
It has been shown that when men and women come together to make a decision, the outcome is more
favourable. Men and women each provide different qualities in terms of work and a study consisting of
700 participants grouped into groups of 5, showed that groups comprised of men and women
performed significantly better.
In order for diverse virtual teams to be successful, they must establish trust as well as create virtual
work-cycle meetings. They must also practice external assessment and recognition to keep up team
morale, and speak up against intolerance or discrimination within the team. Lastly, teamwork-based
rewards are also important to the success of these teams.
To create inclusive virtual teams, it is important to communicate clearly, and leaders should be clear,
concise and respectful. It is also crucial to practice inclusiveness, and allow all voices in the team to be
heard.
A study shows that companies with below average diversity have only 26% average innovation revenue,
whereas companies who have above average diversity reported 45% average innovation revenue.
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