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Perceived vs. Real Traits

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Managers should select team members based on three skill areas:

Technical or functional expertise
Task-management skills
Interpersonal skills

Research has shown, however, that team members often judge one another "at least initially" not on the basis of the three skill sets but on the basis of perceived traits. This perception can create tension, especially when managers work to build diverse teams.

Address the following questions:

- Have you ever experienced a time when a team member judged you on the basis of perceived traits instead of your ability, expertise, or education?
- As a manager, how would you counteract the issue of perceived traits within your team?
- As a manager, how would you improve your team's understanding and acceptance of a diverse group?

Hint: Consider the positive aspects of diversity.

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Solution Summary

This solution discusses perceived traits and real traits within the workplace.

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Have you ever experienced a time when a team member judged you on the basis of perceived traits instead of your ability, expertise, or education?
I don't recall being judged on the basis of perceived traits instead of my expertise. However, I have seen others judge other team members based on their perception of what that individual might be like working in the team. It was disrespectful to that individual and showed that in a group setting, just because someone comes from a background different than your own, does not mean that they are not just as capable at completing a task.

As a manager, how would you counteract the issue of perceived traits within your team?
To counteract the issue of perceived ...

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