In the social sphere, the idea of diversity centres on acknowledging and embracing a variety of cultural differences and similarities. These include race, backgrounds, religious faith, age, gender, and sexual orientation, socio-economics and physical disabilities.

In other words, diversity consists of all characteristics and experiences that identify each of us as an individual and unique.

However, in the workplace it is all too easy to give this concept short shrift. It can be inconvenient to take the time to understand each other. Employees may worry that their employers would not want exploratory cross-cultural interactions occurring on their time.

It is up to human resource professionals, managers, and business leaders to let them know it is okay – and in fact, to lead the way when it comes to diversity in the workplace