Sensitivity Training

Sensitivity training helps individuals become more aware of their own attitudes and behaviors. The goal is to help employees better appreciate and work with those who are different from them. It often focuses on issues related to race, ethnicity, gender identity, ableness, religion, and other protected groups. It may also address issues like sexual harassment and inappropriate workplace behavior.

Employees who participate in sensitivity training develop better communication skills, increased empathy, and an improved understanding of diversity and inclusion. This leads to a more positive and respectful work environment, enhanced collaboration, and reduced incidents of workplace discrimination or conflict.

The key aspects of sensitivity training include:

• Awareness: Recognizing your biases and assumptions
• Respect: Considering other cultures as valid as your own.
• Humility: Understanding that yours is not the only perspective.
• Open-Mindedness: Inquiring into what others feel, believe, or experience.

Training also addresses gender and multicultural sensitivity, as well as sensitivity towards the disabled.

Online sensitivity training can be effective, especially when it includes interactive elements like virtual discussions, real-time feedback, and group activities. However, the effectiveness depends on the quality of the course content, the facilitator's skills, and participants' engagement levels.

Yes, sensitivity training is available for groups. Many training providers offer customized programs designed to meet the specific needs of your organization, ensuring that the content is relevant and tailored to your team's unique dynamics and challenges.

Sensitivity courses may cover a range of areas, including:

• Promoting a diverse and harassment-free workplace
• Managing and communicating effectively in a diverse workplace
• Behaviors that lead to harassment or discrimination claims
• "Gray areas" contributing to hostile work environments
• How communication styles influence perceptions
• Preventing insensitivity, harassment, or disrespectful behavior

Everyone in a company can benefit from sensitivity training, not just managers or HR departments. Anyone who interacts, collaborates, and makes decisions with others can gain valuable knowledge on earning trust and navigating diverse situations.

• Group Training: On-site training, where the provider travels to you, or online training. The content is often tailored to address specific company challenges.
• Individual Training: In-person classroom, or online courses which can be on-demand or live. On-demand courses are flexible, while live online classes allow interaction with instructors and classmates.