We are fortunate that be bolder, in a visionary way, has decided to implement a remote work model that has allowed it to adapt to changing market circumstances. Thanks to this, we are also a multicultural team capable of taking on the challenge of internationalization.
We have adapted to remote work and are adept at handling technology. Also, our internet connection is stable, and the company provides us with excellent technological resources. In this context, we present you the following tips to “go international”:
Let’s start with ourselves
Before thinking about other places and people, let’s look inside ourselves and reflect on our ways of thinking and our behaviors. It is essential to consider the impact our preconceptions and subconscious actions can have on others. Let’s take just enough time to consider our responses to different situations before continuing to act.
Let’s look for objectivity
Let us remember that all approaches and work methods have their advantages and disadvantages and that the way we have been working may not be the best for the particular conditions or challenges of each specific project or job that we face in an international environment, so we will always have the opportunity to learn, grow, and be more efficient.
We are willing to adapt
Cultures change and adapt as they come into contact with others and face new circumstances. Furthermore, business dynamics, technologies, and work methods are constantly transforming. Let us be careful not to make assumptions about the people we work with and be willing to modify our perceptions based on our experience.
Let’s stay curious
Each culture views the world from its own perspective, limited to its context. So, we can only expand our vision of the world around us through curiosity and being willing to learn from others. Let’s ask clear and specific questions and pay attention to the answers they give us to demonstrate a willingness to learn and interest in their cultures.
Let’s ask if doubts arise
If we are not understanding what is being said, even if it is only part of it, let us not be afraid to ask for clarification. We may discover our assumptions were incorrect because we did not consider the other person’s perspective. This is due, for example, to certain words not being translated in the same way into other languages or having a different interpretation in the other culture.
Let’s empathize
It is not easy to see the world through the eyes of others, even within the same cultural environment. In that sense, in intercultural collaboration, we must make more efforts. Let’s do our best to understand each other’s approaches to different aspects of business, such as communication, decision-making, and information sharing. We don’t have to agree, only try to understand their point of view.
Let’s be friendly
Building human relationships is fundamental for most cultures. In that sense, it is important to like and trust the other. Let us express an honest interest in getting to know others on a personal level, as long as it is done respectfully and being very careful not to exceed the established limits. It may seem simple, but let’s avoid rudeness. Often, success in other cultures is simply about being liked.
Patience is a virtue
Let’s not expect to learn or produce results as quickly as we would under our usual conditions. It’s easy to feel frustrated when things aren’t going as fast as we want; however, if we fall into frustration, we will quickly exhaust ourselves, preventing us from moving forward and meeting the established objectives. Let’s give ourselves just enough time for talent to shine in the face of new and challenging cultural situations.
Let’s use perception
There is no second chance for a first impression. From the moment of presenting the intercultural team that will carry out the work, we must be very attentive to identify possible cultural differences and put into practice everything we have mentioned in this document. Let us not forget that the project’s success will depend on our ability to foresee cultural differences and similarities.
Let’s find our resilience
Crossing cultural boundaries is exhausting. That’s right, even the simplest activities must be done, for example, in another language. Being constantly alert to how to act in a different culture requires a lot of concentration and energy, and we cannot neglect our performance for that reason. This is why it is essential to identify what helps us overcome difficult moments and move forward.
References: Recruit, R. (2023, March 10). 10 ways to work effectively across cultures. RICS Recruit. https://www.ricsrecruit.com/article/work-effectively-across-cultures.
