Office Bullying and Harassment Policy Volume Nov 2013 | Page 42

Cross-cultural awareness
B.C. has a diverse population — diversity that’s very much reflected in our workplaces. Sometimes,
cross-cultural misunderstanding can lead to conflict, which can escalate to bullying and
harassment — or the perception that it’s happening.
In the workplace, cultural and personal style differences might surface in areas such as
communication, attitudes about conflict, and approaches to decision-making. Awareness and support
of these differences can help ease workplace tension and conflict.
Cross-cultural awareness can be introduced in a formal way (through a workshop or online training). It
can also be initiated informally through conversations at staff meetings, potluck meals, celebrations of
diversity, and other occasions where workers are encouraged to talk about their cultural backgrounds
and share their experiences.
All workers, including supervisors and employers, are responsible for their own behaviour at work,
as well as how it can positively or negatively affect others.

Did you know?
Research shows that companies that focus on effective internal functioning and
communications enjoy a number of benefits compared to competitors that demonstrate
ineffective communications practices. These benefits include a 57-percent
higher total return, a 19-percent higher market premium, a 4.5-times greater likelihood of having
highly engaged employees, and a 20-percent greater likelihood of reporting reduced turnover.
(Mattice 2009)

Workplace code of conduct
Some employers find it useful to create a workplace code of conduct, team charter, or respectful
workplace pact, emphasizing the

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Toward a respectful workplace