Abstract
This paper aims to establish the importance of implementing cultural diversity training programmes in South African hotels in order to assist both manager and general staff better deal with culturally associated dilemmas faced in the working environment. The paper reports on the extent of cultural diversity within South African hotels by exploring the various dimensions of cultural diversity found within the hotel workforce, the organisational stance on cultural diversity as well as cultural diversity challenges faced by both mangers and general employees. There have been many studies conducted in continents such as North America and Europe on the importance of cultural diversity, but few studies have been conducted on the importance of management participation within these studies (Reynold, Raham, & Bradetich,2013: 430). Managers participation in cultural diversity training is then vital in order to be sensitive to cultural differences so that they can review their own perceptions and behaviours making it easier to manage their diverse employees more efficiently, otherwise these cultural barriers may cause discomfort and stress for the judged party involved (Baum, Devine & Hearns, 2007). Using quantitative approach a five- point Likert – scale questionnaire was utilized in order to provide clarity on the views of managers and employees in regards to cultural diversity and the challenges both parties faced.