The world in the 21st century is more connected, yet more diverse than ever before.  This presents a significant challenge, especially in the workforce where teamwork and cohesiveness is a critical part of organizational structures. We all understand that men, women, people of all colors, gay, straight, disabled, the young and the old, bring a variety of different experiences to the work place. Many of these groups may differ in their values, attitudes and behaviors, and the manner in which they perceive situations and solve problems. Our challenge is to learn how to communicate across cultural barriers so that we can enhance understanding and appreciation and establish a sense of cohesiveness in our jobs and in our lives.

Q:  The issues of diversity and bias are really only concerns held by the HR Departments, so why should I consider including the “diversity subject” at OUR conference or meeting? 

A: The great thing about the topics of diversity and cross cultural communication is that it applies to all of us, at work, in our neighborhoods, and in our country. Phillip has received rave reviews from trade association groups including the Public Relations Society of America.

Q: Diversity might be O.K. as a breakout session or workshop, but is it an interesting and entertaining enough topic to really be a hit during a general session?

A:  The fact is, as Americans we HAVE to deal with cross cultural issues and Phillip gives people effective tools, real-life examples, and even a web site that will help them better relate, respond to and respect the differences that make up the many cultures of America.  The result is always enlightening, often heartwarming, and sometimes hysterically funny.  

Q: There are hundreds of diversity speakers – how is Phillip Milano different?

A:  Phillip is different because:

• He starts off where many other diversity speakers leave off: getting participants to actually discuss real-life examples of questions and then engaging in on-the-spot discussions about cultural differences.  He emphasizes teaching the skills that we all can use to overcome the misunderstanding and biases that are generated from our own misunderstandings and lack of appreciation about people different than ourselves.
• His training sessions create more than just a temporary buzz;: they give participants effective tools to create cross-cultural dialogues from this day forward. He shows people how to get away from  about blaming any one population for the biases around us, and how each of us – as men, women, black, white, brown, gay, and straight - has the ability to re-wire our mindset and discard the biases that inhibit our ability to communicate honestly, courageously and compassionately.
• Resources beyond that moment in time: Through his ongoing global diversity project Yforum.com, participants have a 24/7 place to go to freely discuss cultural issues or questions. It’s not simply a fun seminar, it’s the beginning of a new way of life where we ASK, LEARN and APPRECIATE each other and our differences.

Q: This audience isn’t exactly diverse, so why would they be interested in diversity or cross-cultural communication?

A: The answer to that question  lies in the answer to this: Does your audience live and work in America? Then they need to know how to accurately interpret the needs and behaviors of colleagues, customers, and employees. They will (eventually) need to evaluate, motivate, and otherwise conduct business with people who aren’t exactly like themselves. The reality is that EVERY group can benefit from what Phillip can teach them.