A Diverse Workforce Isn’t Always What You Think It Is

We all work with people who are not like us, but diversity can take many forms. That was the word from Kelly McDonald, expert on consumer trends and multicultural marketing, and author of How To Work With And Lead People Not Like You.

McDonald spoke on how to get along with diverse people in the workplace during Wednesday’s National Association of Life Insurance Brokerage Agency’s virtual annual convention.

When we think of diversity, we usually think of people who are of a different racial or ethnic background from us. But diversity comes in many forms, McDonald said, defining it as “any way you are different from me.” In considering diversity in the workforce, she said, you must look at:

• People who like to work alone versus people who want to work collaboratively.
• Trans and nonbinary individuals.
• Those who express themselves through different styles of dress or hair color.
• Those with different abilities and disabilities.
• Differences in family structure.
• Introverts versus extroverts.
• Creative types versus analytical thinkers.
• Morning people versus “night owls.”
• Different generations in the workforce.
• Rural residents versus those who live in metropolitan areas.

“Different can be uncomfortable – especially at work,” McDonald said. “We understand the perils of saying the wrong thing at work but there’s no good way to express it. It’s too risky, so you keep quiet but you’re struggling. If you’re struggling, you’re normal.”

McDonald gave six key ways to work with people who are not like you.

1. Build trust. McDonald described two types of trust: common trust and vulnerability trust. Common trust is given to others while vulnerability trust must be earned, cultivated and reciprocated.
2. Be aware that our differences are real.
3. Give people what they want. Let clients dictate what form of communication they want.
4. Agree to disagree. But couch it as “I see it differently.”
5. Take the emotion out of it. Liking and disliking are emotions – it’s OK not to like someone but you must be respectful and professional.
6. Use four magic words. Say, “I need your help,” instead of asking, “Can you help me?” McDonald said the response will more likely be positive and that statement will open more doors for you.

Susan Rupe is managing editor for InsuranceNewsNet. She formerly served as communications director for an insurance agents' association and was an award-winning newspaper reporter and editor. Contact her at [email protected]. Follow her on Twitter @INNsusan.

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Susan Rupe is editor in chief, magazine, for InsuranceNewsNet. She formerly served as communications director for an insurance agents' association and was an award-winning newspaper reporter and editor. Contact her at [email protected].