THE DIVERSITY CODE

"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."uBonnie 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."uBrian K. Britton, AVP, Construction & Procurement, Black & VeatchuBuilding a World of DifferenceO

"[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:'uBill 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 intouwithout 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 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.