Seminar overview

If your professional role requires geographical mobility, this seminar will be of help to you. The programme explores cultural variations in communication practices, planning strategies, decision-making, risk-taking and customer relations.

Benefits	Understand how culture influences the thought processes and business practices of your international colleagues, clients and partners. Improve interactions with people from other cultures. Discover practical strategies for improving your performance on the international arena.
Audience	Senior executives, international managers, sales representatives, expatriates.
Languages	English, French.
Duration	This is a one-day course.
Approach	The seminar combines theory, practical exercises, case studies and role play..

Programme

Recognizing and coping with culture shock

What is culture shock?
Stages involved in cultural adjustment

 

Understanding cultural differences

The importance of understanding one’s own culture
Cultural stereotypes and preconceptions
The cultural iceberg: symbols, heroes, rituals and values
How culture influences our perception of the world and way of thinking
The benefits of cultural diversity

 

Communicating effectively in an intercultural environment

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

 

Working with people from other countries

Building relationships with colleagues, clients and partners
Planning and chairing meetings
Participating in group activities

 

Cultural dimensions and management models

Hierarchical and egalitarian cultures (how power is distributed)
Individual and group leadership
Uncertainty avoidance and risk-taking
The relative importance of tasks and relationships

 

International customer relations

Expectations and perceptions of value across cultures
Differing practices in customer relations