The Diversity Code - by Michelle T Johnson (Paperback)

About the Book

Do you have questions about the movement toward increased workplace diversity that you're too afraid to ask? This daringly honest book promotes understanding about the value of cross-cultural teams by addressing challenging questions and providing clear answers.

Book Synopsis

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, including: 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.

From the Back Cover

"Through real-world observations, [Johnson] shares valuable insights on its definition along with practical, thought-provoking tools that challenge a broader understanding of diversity and the impact that our individual mindsets have on inclusion in the workplace. A must-read to learn the benefits of embracing diversity professionally and in your personal life." - Bonnie Heenan, Global Procurement Manager for Hallmark Cards, Inc.

"With the precise motions of a surgeon, Michelle Johnson yet again dares to go where few people ever do in discussing issues of gender, race, sexual preference, and a multitude of other differences, providing clear and insightful guidance into achieving inclusion and understanding the need for diverse workplaces." - Steve Denson, Director of Diversity and Lecturer, Cox School of Business, Southern Methodist University

"Michelle is a very forward-thinking author. She is as much of a teacher as she is an author." - Brian K. Britton, AVP, Construction & Procurement, Black & Veatch - Building a World of Difference(TM)

"[W]ell written, easy to read, and filled with practical 'how to' ideas, best practice suggestions, and exercises for your most junior associate and most senior executive."- Bill Bargas, Chief Diversity Officer, Diversity.com

Your organization may follow employment and nondiscrimination law to the letter, but that's just the beginning when it comes to doing diversity right. Real diversity (and the synergies born of it) is achieved only when people learn how to both reconcile and value their cultural differences. And real diversity is not just about race and gender. The Diversity Code goes beyond rules and regulations to show you how to make diversity more than just a set of requirements to be met. With tough but enlightening questions, scenarios, and assessments, it includes such topics as:

Implementing a diversity program the whole company will buy into--without interfering with everyone's "real" work - Why being "covered on diversity" misses the point - What to do if someone accuses you of something - How to hold someone else accountable, even if they outrank you - What to do when a situation is going from bad to worse - How to know when you've achieved true diversity

The Diversity Code will help your business become a genuine cross-cultural community that not only recognizes and embraces differences but also leverages those unique perspectives for the strengths each one brings to the workplace.

Michelle T. Johnson writes the "Diversity Diva" newspaper column. She is a former employment attorney and author of Working While Black: The Black Person's Guide to Success in the White Workplace. Her diversity workshop clients have included Wal-Mart, H&R Block, and several municipalities.

About the Author

MICHELLE T. JOHNSON is creator of the "Diversity Diva" newspaper column, a former employment attorney, and author of Working While Black. Her diversity workshop clients have included Wal-Mart, H&R Block, and several municipalities.