Today's workplace is full of individuals from difference races, genders, cultures and backgrounds who treat others and relate to the way they are being treated in vastly different ways. As a result, both diversity and mainstream employees must learn to focus their efforts on treating others not only as they themselves would like to be treated but also on treating others the way each specific individual wants to be treated.

The key to creating an inclusive atmosphere in a diverse workplace lies in communication and respect, and the two go hand in hand. Diversity individuals often complain that they do not feel that they are respected in their workplaces— but that feeling usually stems from poor communication and misunderstandings in the workplace.

One way individuals can improve the way they communicate in the workplace is by gauging how they speak with their colleagues. Pay particular attention to the tone in which you address your coworkers and the speed at which you speak. If you find that you rush instructions to coworkers or that your tone is somewhat harsh, any coworker—including your diversity coworkers— will feel somewhat slighted or disrespected.

You should take a minute to address your coworkers in a way that shows that you respect them and value their contribution. Sometimes just slowing things down a bit can go a long way in demonstrating your respect and admiration for your coworkers, and at the same time it creates a more inclusive working atmosphere.

In today’s sensitive and politically correct working environment, white employees in particular find it difficult to figure out the least offensive way to address their diverse coworkers on certain issues. Sometimes a white coworker may have a genuine interest in finding out about Three Kings Day, but does not ask about it because she fears she might offend the individual because she doesn’t know whether to refer to him as Hispanic or Latino. Many individuals are interested in the different holidays that diverse coworkers celebrate (such as Kwanzaa), but shy away from the subject because they are not sure if they should ask about the African American culture or the Black culture.

And sometimes such questions may be perceived as intrusive and offensive, even though the person asking them may truly care and have a genuine interest in learning. To over come this, you must make sure that you ask such questions at the appropriate time and place, and with a genuine intent.

When people know you are coming from a respectful, caring place they are much less likely to construe any questions you have as intrusive and offensive and will usually be happy to share the information with you. The simple act of demonstrating your genuine caring, respect, and interest in a diverse coworker’s culture and background can build important bridges and make your workplace more inclusive.

One of the best ways to help build a more inclusive atmosphere at work may surprise you because of its simplicity: by saying hello. Many diverse individuals feel disrespected at work simply because no one really greets them.

Make it a point to greet your coworkers on a daily basis, even if that means engaging in the arduous task of getting up from your desk and going about the office to say hello to your coworkers. Doing this will send the message to all of your coworkers that you acknowledge them and that you are truly glad to have them there.

Simple and genuine communication is the key to making your workplace more inclusive. By being genuine in your conversations and truly listening to all of your coworkers (not just your diversity coworkers) you send the message that you are respectful of them and you value their contributions— both of which will make them feel included in the workplace.