Diversity Training definition

Diversity training is training delivered to make participants more aware of diversity issues in the workplace, their own beliefs on diversity, as well as provide skills to help them interact, collaborate and work more closely with people that have different qualities to their own.

From a business perspective, diversity training is seen to have a number of benefits such as increased collaboration and relational skills, protecting against violations of discrimination legislation (therefore reducing the firm’s risk profile) and empowering those from underrepresented groups to feel more confident and valued in the workplace.

Despite these perceived benefits, diversity training attracts significant criticism – some question its ability to drive change. According to some critics, it may be counterproductive because it reinforces the differences between people rather than celebrating them.