Let's Be Lefties For A Day

Let’s Be Lefties for a Day In an ever changing world of cultural awareness, it is imperative that mangers and leaders understand the impact of diversity within the work environment. In order to do this, they must first examine their own feeling in regards to cultural differences. As one works towards an appreciation of cultural differences, the ball and sock experience offers a unique approach in relating to these differences. Managing these differences can be challenging, yet valuable to the organization and the individuals.

As managers learn to deal with diversity in the work place, they must define what it means to them. Is it just race, culture, and gender? As defined by some organizations, diversity encompasses a person’s culture,

Since it is not possible to really walk in another’s shoes, the ball and sock experience can provide a peek at what it might be like. Since the majority of people tend to be right-handed, this experiment permits one to see what it might be like to be left or right handed by holding a ping pong ball in the dominant hand and putting a sock over it. (DeVry, 2014). In fact, since the dominant hand can’t be used at all, it allows one to have a glimpse of how someone with one hand must function and work in their environment. This glimpse of how others are affected by the world around them can lead to a greater appreciation and potential for finding common

While tolerance and acceptance doesn’t mean one has to agree or endorse the positions of other groups, it does support growth and mutual respect. Being able to experience what others are going through would give any individual a better understanding of another’s perspective. While this is not always possible, there are ways for manager to assist employees in having a better understanding. Whether it be through the ball and sock experience or scripting and role playing, these experiments provide a learning opportunity for all involved. Managing diversity in the work place takes commitment, acceptance, strength, and patience. Setting goals and guidelines for accountability within the business for cultural growth allows all employees to have ownership in the development of successful and professional relationships within the team. In setting goals for professional growth, culture diversity training is essential for building trust, communication, and collaboration within the work environment, thus promoting appreciation and growth throughout the