The melting pot or Hungarian goulash
How many times have you heard, “America is a melting pot”? That sounds great, doesn’t it? Isn’t that what people from diverse backgrounds look for when they come? It seems like the right thing to do if an immigrant wants to be an active part of American culture. What is the United States giving up in this melting pot; any. I’ll compare the three most popular food analogies to emphasize what works best for everyone in an organization.
The three analogies are the melting pot, the salad bowl, and the ethnic pot. These are unique and provide a foundation for a highly productive work environment. First, the melting pot requires people to assimilate by giving up their religion, cultural customs, and much more. Initially, the crucible concept sounds great; however, instead of mixed vegetables, it is simply a flavorless soup.
Next, the salad bowl analogy is well-intentioned, but something is still missing. People maintain their cultures, which should create a dynamic and successful work environment. Now this salad bowl analogy seems like the perfect solution to work together. However, one thing is missing for the salad bowl to be effective. There is nothing that unites the cultures so that they work efficiently. Working with leaders from different cultures should focus everyone on the common goals of the organization.
The final analogy is the Hungarian ethnic stew or goulash. The ethnic stew is more like Hungarian goulash due to the different types of meat and vegetables. When cooked they maintain their solid structure. In the ethnic stew, a work environment, there is integration and cultural differentiation. Any organization that works like this analogy is great.
The three analogies are a great tool for leaders in an organization. They also help explain what does and does not increase productivity. If work environments followed the example of the melting pot, then there is only one group that is right. That way of thinking creates an organization of a thought, a mind, a way of dressing, etc. without variations. Without cultural diversity every day, every discussion becomes stale and predictable.
The other end of the spectrum is Hungarian goulash or ethnic stew. Goulash is a mixture consisting of different or several parts. Using this idea in the work environment creates a very successful organization. When people are able to remain who they are, they are eager to work with others to achieve organizational goals. Your work environment will be amazing.
What are some ways to make a goulash setting work?
- Focus on people’s unique skills, talents, abilities, and perspectives.
- Carry out intercultural training.
- get promoted on merit
- Fair treatment and opportunities to excel
In this global economy, Hungarian goulash will increase productivity, increase employee engagement, increase revenue and find new markets. Who knew that food could help an organization prosper?
