Tips for Valuing Diversity

• Remember that reasonable people can – and do – differ with each other. No two people are the same. Diversity among team members enhances creativity.

• Try to learn as much as you can from others. Learning the various backgrounds, cultures and professional values of others can enrich your won skills and abilities.

• Evaluate a new idea based on its merits. Try to avoid evaluating ideas based on who submitted them or how closely they mirror your own personal preferences.

• Avoid comments and remarks that draw negative attention to a person’s unique characteristics. Humor is a key factor in a healthy team environment, but should never occur at the expense of another’s identity and self esteem.

• Don’t ignore the differences among team members. The differences should be honored and utilized to advance the goals of the team.