Seminar overview

More and more projects involve team members based in different geographical locations. This programme covers key issues which these teams face, notably different expectations and attitudes to teamwork, authority, time management and risk-taking. Through a series of practical exercises, participants also learn to communicate more effectively in written, telephone and face-to-face exchanges.

Objectives	To promote a team spirit, build trust and imporove the team's productivity. To provide a common language for discussing cultural differences.
Audience	All members of international teams.
Languages	English, French.
Duration	This is a two-day course.
Approach	The seminar combines theory, practical exercises, case studies, role play and an analysis of participants' experiences to date.

Programme

Understanding cultural differences

Developing cultural self-awareness and understanding others
The problems with cultural stereotypes and preconceptions
The cultural iceberg: symbols, heroes, rituals and values
Attitudes to time, space and the environment

The benefits of cultural diversity

 

Communicating effectively in a cross-cultural environment

Verbal and non-verbal communication
Comparison of communication styles in countries represented
Adapting to a different communication style
Overcoming language barriers
Written and telephone communications
Presenting to an international audience

 

Cultural dimensions which impact teamwork

How authority is distributed
The relative importance of tasks and relationships
Uncertainty avoidance and risk-taking
Individualism and collectivism

 

Working as a team

Setting team goals
Preparing and participating in meetings
Reporting
Sharing information and know-how

 

The virtual team

Building trust and relationships in a virtual environment
Choosing worktools
Establishing work practices
Online meetings: preparation, format, participation