Improving Race Relations In The Workplace

By Thomas Davis


The problem of racism has refused to die the world over. It still elicits raw emotions in public and private sector to the point of making the work environment unbearable. It is the responsibility of managers and their workforce to find the best approach to managing race relations so that they do not affect productivity. The following expert tips will make it easier to manage racial relationships and interactions in order to keep work environments productive.

Build consciousness on the issue of race within your organization. The beginning of finding a solution always lies in acknowledging the existence of a problem. Once you fail to acknowledge that a problem exists, you will be sitting on a time bomb. When people in an environment are aware that a problem exists, they will take proactive steps to prevent spillovers that can be dangerous.

Sensitize and educate workers on the manifestations of racial biases and how to deal with conflicts better. This education should start with a clear understanding of the history that has led to such conflicts. Scrutinize the materials used in education so that they do not prejudice one group over the other. A balanced view makes it easier to understand the underlying issues and provide a solution. Biases make solutions difficult to find.

The conflicts should be domesticated to make it easier to understand. Numerous theories exist regarding racial confrontations. Even the incidences shared are always far-fetched. It is always easier to understand an issue when the examples are home based. People can identify with the hurtful feeling that other people are subjected to when discriminated. The point is driven home and the best solution obtained. Such domesticating leaves a lasting impression in the lives of persons involved.

Be quick and fair when addressing issues that arise in your organization. Speed is important because it prevents small issues from escalating. Some people have higher tolerance levels. You must therefore set standards and address the issues whether a person got offended or not. Fairness also sends a signal that even the small issues are important.

Enhance diversity in your organization. The organization must be seen to promote diversity through employment and assigning responsibilities to people or all races. An environment where only one race is represented will experience biases that might be too hidden for you to notice. All races must be given equal opportunities and treatment, whether they are workers or clients.

All racial discrimination issues must be dealt with firmly. Workers should be reprimanded for saying mean things about other races. The action taken should be firm and commensurate to the level of damage done. Do not allow conflicts to remain unresolved for too long. Ignoring them will cause small issues to be blown out of proportion.

An organization will manage race issues by being firm, deliberate and prompt. Action taken must be deliberate and affect all cadres of your organization. Create awareness of the need to avoid racial confrontations and put in place other preventive measures to make the work environment conducive for all races.




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