- Olali, Salome Azibanowonem
- Ph.D Student, Department of Office and Information Management, Faculty of Management Sciences, Niger Delta University, Bayelsa State, Nigeria
This
study explores the relationship between workplace diversity and communication
effectiveness in public firms, with a focus on understanding the challenges and
opportunities posed by diverse workforces. Diversity, encompassing demographic,
cultural, and cognitive differences, can enhance creativity and innovation but
also presents significant communication barriers. Through a qualitative
analysis involving interviews, focus groups, and observations within public
firms, the study identifies key themes such as cultural and linguistic
barriers, implicit bias, leadership influence, and the role of team
collaboration in fostering communication. Findings reveal that cultural
differences and biases often impede effective communication, while inclusive
leadership and structured communication protocols can enhance understanding and
team performance. The study concludes that communication effectiveness in
diverse workplaces is contingent on how well public firms manage diversity
through proactive strategies, such as cultural sensitivity training, inclusive
leadership, and leveraging technological tools for communication.
Recommendations are provided to help public firms improve communication
effectiveness and harness the benefits of diversity, ultimately leading to
enhanced organizational performance.
Keywords: Workplace Diversity, Communication Effectiveness, Inclusive leadership, Cultural barriers, linguistic diversity