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win-win strategies to embrace cultural differences

Mashudu Nenjelele • Sep 12, 2022

​As more conglomerates continue to occupy the global marketplace, the multifaceted concept of workplace diversity is expected to evolve. While most thriving organisations have a culturally diverse workforce, it needs to be managed effectively. After all, there is power in diversity.

Take South Africa, for example. It has 11 official languages and it's rare to find a business that doesn't have employees who speak less than four, if not all eleven, languages. Although the most spoken language of choice would be English, all these employees have different values and belief systems. This can be beneficial for a company as studies reveal it allows for easier adoption to consumer demands and shifting markets.


In this blog, Network Recruitment will highlight 3 strategies that you can implement in your business to embrace your culturally diverse team.

Understand each culture

According to Stats SA's 2018 mid-year population estimates report, it's likely that SA will have about R1.02 million immigrants by 2021, and that 47.5% of those immigrants will settle in the economic hub of Gauteng. As such, it's becoming necessary for businesses in Gauteng to understand each culture and how it differs from others. Organisations should start investing in learning about different cultures from their current employees.

Create a positive company culture

In order to manage cultural differences in any organisation, the employer needs to be able to interact with employees from differing social, economic and cultural backgrounds. In today's workforce, it's crucial for team members to be aware of their cultural differences and how they will directly or indirectly affect the way in which they communicate with each other. Make an effort to create and implement positive strategies where cultures within the organisation are celebrated.

Improve your team's communication skills

In any organisation, communication is crucial. It, therefore, becomes essential for your staff to understand that verbal and non-verbal communication differs from one culture to another.


These strategies will not only broaden your view and that of your employees on a global level but will also go a long way to establish respect from all parties. If your company prioritises the creation and maintenance of an inclusive company environment where cultural differences are respected and celebrated, it will thrive.


Are you looking for an IT job, Finance job, Engineering job, or a Contracting assignment? Contact Network Recruitment, the center of recruitment excellence.

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