Identify potential employment barriers to nontraditional groups and ways to overcome these barriers.

Identification should include potential barriers such as

• failure to meet workplace expectations (e.g., conduct, performance)
• failure to keep current with technical knowledge and skills
• workplace discrimination as defined by state, federal, and local policies.

Strategies for overcoming barriers may include

• learning state and federal employment laws and company human resources policies
• participating in professional development programs
• participating in employee associations and/or union services
• appreciating the benefits of constructive criticism.

Process/Skill Questions:

• What can a nontraditional employee do to overcome obstacles? How can colleagues and management help?
• How can employees keep their technical knowledge and skills current?
• What role does work ethic play in meeting workplace expectations?
• What are the benefits of diversity in the workplace?