Working Across Cultures

Overview

This programme provides an introduction to a Model of Culture through a series of business-related incidents and situations and is ideal for those working in a global role or organisation.

Objectives

• understand what motivates your international colleagues
• understand how you need to modify your behaviour to create a positive impression
• use techniques for analysing the behaviour of different cultural groups
• learn many practical business tips that will be immediately useful

Course Content

Introduction to Culture: What is “normal” behaviour? Why we behave in the way we do – an introduction to cultural awareness.

Country-by-Country comparison:  This session will include a briefing and discussion on each relevant country’s history and geography, land, climate and resources, national ‘identity’, family life, class structure, religion, immigration, attitudes to the EU, etc.  What image do the other cultural groups have of you?  How can you modify your behaviour to overcome any negative or stereotypical views?

Model of Culture:  An introduction to a Model of Culture to provide a framework for understanding behaviours in the context of the (unconsciously-held) beliefs and assumptions of the cultural groups under discussion.

Know How to Communicate (both face-to-face and remotely): How should you communicate with your foreign business partners and friends in order to avoid misunderstandings? How explicit or implicit will their communication be? How can you adapt your style to ensure you communicate successfully with them?   This session includes advice on ‘breaking the ice’ and developing relationships, handling meetings and reaching consensus, persuading, motivating and leading overseas colleagues, delegating, business and social hierarchy, team-working, giving and receiving feedback and timeliness.

Strategies for Working Effectively Together: An action plan of practical do’s and don’ts. What to do and what to avoid when working with your foreign colleagues. Practical and useful tips that will help cement relationships and get the best out of multi-cultural working