Connecting with our Regional Workforce

Within our multicultural society today it is crucial for businesses and organizations to operate in new ways that meet the needs of St. Cloud’s changing demographics, to attract and retain individuals from culturally and ethnically diverse backgrounds in our workforce. Having a diverse workplace not only benefits the organization immensely, it also gives companies several competitive advantages. Building culturally competent organizations within our community that welcome and understand the varied sets of skills, abilities, experiences, knowledge, and perspectives individuals from different cultural backgrounds and orientations have is crucial towards being successful in today’s workplace.

The information shared below highlights key aspects an employer should consider when hiring individuals from different cultural backgrounds and orientations and how to build a work environment that encourages and respects diversity. This document is not intended to explain how all members of a group think and behave, rather it provides suggestions on how to overcome communication barriers. In order to be successful in the workplace and build relationships we need to value and respect the differences that make people unique and learn from one another.