Developing ethics and diversity awareness programs domestically can pose a significant challenge, and adding the global factor creates a new dimension. Experience with these matters often concentrates on generational, race, and gender differences. While focusing on these areas certainly benefits an organization, most of the traditional models do not apply to other countries.

Determining what topics to discuss is not easy. However, there are five distinct approaches to help you:

The utilitarian approach supports actions that produce the greatest good and the least harm.

The rights approach advocates respect and protection for the individual.

The justice approach believes that all people should be treated equal.

The common-good approach states that all actions should contribute to the community.

The virtue approach encourages the individual to decide what action will contribute to his personal best.

Additionally, consider the following questions when discussing, designing, or deploying a global program:

  • Who will handle the training?
  • How do we validate the credibility of the person and the message?
  • How are other companies contributing to diversity in their local communities?
  • Can the local talent conduct ethics training?
  • Are there programs available that can be used as a foundation?
  • What metrics will indicate program success or the need for improvement?

As you collect the basic items required and investigate the complex factors that these questions will reveal, you will uncover other important areas to explore. Every business is different and presents special circumstances.

Research the shared practices and policies in your global offices. This could include flexible work hours, competitive pay practices, developmental opportunities, and how employees participate in the company's success. Shared policies could include education assistant programs, domestic partner benefits, nondiscrimination clauses, and open-door policies.

Read informative articles to keep focused. For example, the United Nations website addresses ethics and diversity, including a concept known as world citizenship, which promotes human honor and dignity, understanding, amity, cooperation, trustworthiness, compassion, and the desire to serve. This has created the idea of corporate citizenship. Starting out with what would make an employee a good corporate citizen is a solid way of building a strong ethics training or diversity awareness program.

Workforce demographics are changing. This means new issues are cropping up in ethics training and diversity awareness. Your goal should be to create an environment that ensures business success and attracts the best people. A strong stand on ethical issues and a commitment to diversity can contribute to these goals. You have the opportunity to effectively impact the global market via careful research and dedication to appreciating the cultural differences among the peoples of the world.