Let's Talk: Communicating Across Diversity

Project and Program: Enterprise Data Center, Professional Development

Tags: Proceedings , 2014 , SHARE in Pittsburgh 2014

The 21st century College is composed of a broad spectrum of diverse people. They include five generations, from Veterans to Millennials, they are male and female, and include dramatic cultural differences. Melding this diversity into a powerful and effective organization is a major challenge for the successful IT practitioner. In this lively and informative session we will investigate techniques for integrating these unique individuals using their diversity to create a stronger entity.  The methodology emphasizes the strengths of each individual, while minimizing their weaknesses, thus creating synergy where the effectiveness of the entire group is greater than the sum of its parts. 
We will look at major differences between the diverse elements and how the strengths of each group can enhance the effectiveness of the whole. We will also investigate communication techniques that help facilitate this process. 
Dr. Bill has received Best Session at Share and Best Session at Guide awards for his presentations.  Come join the fun!
Things you will learn: • 
Characteristics of the five generations.
• 
Differences in generation and gender communication styles.
• 
Verbal and non-verbal communication tools to bridge the gap.
• 
Considerations for handling each distinct group.
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Common motivators that bridge all the groups.
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Techniques to use the diversity to enhance student success.


-Sandra Beck-ITS Florida; William C. Cross-St Petersburg College

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