The Diversity Code: Unlock the Secrets to Making Differences Work in the Real World

by Michelle T. Johnson

The best organizations have struck a balance between reconciling differences and valuing them to promote genuine, cross-cultural teams. Based on years of experience as a diversity expert and attorney, author Michelle T. Johnson uses a healthy mix of humor and blunt honesty to show professionals and their employers why fostering true workplace diversity is a must for any successful business. The Diversity Code does this by answering many of the toughest questions people are often afraid to ask, How do you define diversity?; Am I "safe" simply following the law?; Can't we just acknowledge that we are the same and different--and get on with our work?; How do I handle diversity problems on my staff--or worse, with people who outrank me?; What do I do if I'm accused of something?; and How do I institute change without ticking people off? Each chapter begins with one of these challenging questions, guides readers through thoughts and ideas relating to it, and concludes with a real-world scenario and a chance for readers to test themselves on the cultural competency knowledge they've gained.The most diligent compliance with laws and regulations can't foster true workplace diversity. By equipping professionals and employers with the tools and knowledge to navigate--and appreciate--new workplace diversity initiatives, The Diversity Code reveals the key to increased innovation, collaboration--and respectful working relationships.

256 pages, Kindle Edition

First published September 7, 2010

Reviews

[Merredith · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book was a work book club selection. Published in 2011, it was written by a former employment attorney who now writes a diversity advice column. Each chapter begins with a diversity question posited as a column question and ends with activities you can do yourself or with your group at work. This was a simple overview of diversity, but the twist of describing things from an HR/managerial/workplace point of view kept it interesting for me. As a member of the diversity and inclusion events committee in my office, this book also helped clue me in to what other employees might be thinking every time we announce a diversity event, and how important it is to continue hosting them. Easy to read, not great, but good.

[Christina · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Diversity Code is a winner.

I wrote a news article that reviewed this book because it's the great book on the topic.

The subtle variations in and interplay between culture and personality are seen as the true measure:measure.

The number-on takeaway of this book:

"Honoring individualism as the highest form of diversity" is the way to go.

[Carolyn Hooley preisendanz · Rating 3 out of 5]

Read this as part of a group read at work. Ok.