Stop “assuming” — start confirming
Ask what the facts are, then confirm the next step. Avoid labeling people or situations too early.
Tool: “What are the facts?” + “What else is going on?”
For construction company managers
DEI doesn’t fail on paper. It fails in communication.
On busy sites, communication is your safety system for people: clarity, respect, feedback, and follow-through. Strong communication supports Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) in practical ways, especially across cultures.
5
minute manager checklist
3
steps: clarify → confirm → close the loop
1
standard for respectful communication
Manager Briefing
Build trust. Reduce rework. Keep people.
What this site covers
- Why DEI needs specific communication behaviors
- Why cross-cultural communication is harder on site
- Skills and strategies managers can standardize
- Podcast-based examples and a manager checklist
High-risk moments
handoffs, RFIs, safety talks, discipline
Cultural friction points
tone, directness, status, idioms
Best practice
confirm understanding (repeat-back)
Manager standard
clear expectations + follow-through
What managers should do differently (starting Monday)
These behaviors reduce misunderstanding across cultures and make DEI practices stick on real job sites.
Use plain language on purpose
Short words. Short sentences. Concrete details. No slang/idioms in critical instructions.
Example: “Install by Friday 3pm” beats “ASAP.”
Close the loop (every time)
Restate tasks, who owns them, and the deadline. Then follow up in writing when it matters.
Script: “To confirm: you’ll… by… If blocked, call…”