Communicating Across Differences

Verna Johnson

21 Communicating Across Differences

Verna Johnson

Today’s workplaces are more diverse than ever. People bring different cultural backgrounds, life experiences, communication styles, and ways of thinking. These differences can strengthen a team—if they’re understood and respected.

For managers, diversity isn’t just about hiring people with different identities. It’s about creating environments where people feel heard, valued, and able to do their best work. That starts with strong communication.

Why Diversity Matters in Communication

In any workplace, team members may differ in:

Cultural norms
First languages
Age or generational expectations
Religious practices or holiday observances
Abilities or access needs
Gender expression and identity
Family responsibilities or work-life balance needs

These differences can affect everything from how people express disagreement to how they participate in meetings or prefer to receive feedback. For example:

A team member from a high-context culture might avoid direct confrontation, while someone from a low-context culture may see directness as a sign of respect.
A younger employee might prefer instant messaging for quick questions, while an older colleague might expect a phone call or face-to-face check-in.
Someone with a disability might rely on assistive tech, and clear written communication makes their work smoother.

None of these differences are “problems.” But misunderstandings can happen if they’re not acknowledged.None of these differences are “problems.” But misunderstandings can happen if they’re not acknowledged.

The Manager’s Role

Managers help set the tone for inclusive communication. That includes:

Checking in on communication preferences
Making space for different voices in meetings
Offering accommodations when needed
Being aware of their own assumptions or biases
Clarifying expectations clearly and respectfully

Strong teams don’t require everyone to think or communicate the same way. Instead, they rely on clear, respectful communication—and on leaders who know how to navigate differences with curiosity and care.

Additional Resources (Optional)

Watch Video 3.3: What is intersectionality? below to learn more about intersectionality and how it can be applied in workplace settings.

This short video introduces the concept of intersectionality and explains how people often face multiple, overlapping forms of discrimination. While traditional approaches to equity tend to focus on one identity at a time, intersectionality encourages us to recognize how different systems of power—such as racism, sexism, ableism, or ageism—interact.

Video 3.3: What is intersectionality? | Running Time: 2:49

^{What is intersectionality? | Published by Peter Hopkins | Apr 22, 2018}

If you’d like to explore related ideas—such as identity, stereotypes, implicit bias, and power—watch Video 3.4: Cultural Identity, Power, and Privilege. It covers concepts relevant to workplace diversity and communication. Note: To navigate directly to specific topics, click “Watch on YouTube” and use the chapter markers below the video.

Video 3.4: Cultural Identity, Power, and Privilege | Running Time: 39:22