Reflection Paper # 3
Question #4, pg 120 (Adler)
Name: Lindsay Naylor
Student Number: 040752743
Course: MHR 700
Section: 011
Professor: Susan Fitzrandolph
October 17th, 2007
Creating Culturally Synergetic Solutions (#4, page 122)
People see diversity in difference ways. Some choose to ignore the differences; others see differences in cultures as a negative side of doing business. As discussed in the Adler text people, especially managers, often see recognizing diversity and differences in the work place as prejudice, discrimination, ethnocentric or unprofessional. However, in today's international and borderless workplace we all must learn to value diversity. People are not homogenous or similar and we must develop from ethnocentric views to cultural contingency. One of the ways in which managers can learn to make decisions for the organization is through cultural synergy. Solutions are generated that leverage differences in cultures while at the same time respecting the uniqueness of every culture. When synergy is used to resolve problems several benefits of incorporating diversity can be recognized including, having multiple perspectives and interpretations, along with increasing creativity, flexibility and having a better understanding of the markets in which the business is operating in.
There are certain skills that people can develop to aid in the ability of developing synergic solutions. In reflecting on my personality, experiences and workstyle I believe that I am a passionate listener, an inclusive leader, a problem solver, I am empathic, creative and very respectful. I have worked in a restaurant and an office where I am exposed to several different cultures, where I must ...