1. Tips for dealing with people who belong to different cultures

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1. Many books about multicultural management suggest that the world can be divided into three geographical groups:

1. North America

2. Europe, Latin America, Middle East

3. Japan, China, East Asia

Try to match the groups to the descriptions below. Write the number 1 – 3 in the box.

Meetings a) Objective is to gather information. Communication style is often ‘monologue – pause – monologue’ rather than dialogue. Arguments are often indirect, and there are no sudden changes of viewpoint in meetings. Decisions are made by group consensus over a long time period. b) Objective is to make a deal or decision. Communication style is direct, factual, informal and at times confrontational. Decisions are based on facts, and are often made instantly in the meeting. c) Objective is to establish relationships, build understanding, clarify, and issue instructions. Communication style depends on national culture. Decisions are made by key individuals, outside the meeting.

Business relationships a) Friendly and informal, but a continuing personal relationship is not so important. Much business is done over the phone. b□ Done on a group basis, although relationships based on mutual respect are important. Often there is an older authority figure who rarely appears but has ultimate power. c) Personal relationships are very important. Some time is needed to build trust before business can begin. Preference for doing business face to face.

Presentations a) Complicated language may be used to show education. Audience expects formality and a logical structure, but a touch of imagination is also appreciated. May want a more personal ‘extra’ talk afterwards where you tell them the ‘truth’. b) Indirect, conservative language. Audience appreciates a quiet, formal presentation with visual aids and lots of opportunity to ask questions and check understanding. They expect separate handouts, prepared for different people, by job function. c) Direct, simple language. Audience expects jokes, modernity, logic, slogans, informality and a hard sell. Audience may ask questions or interrupt while someone is speaking, and will openly question inconsistent facts.

Does our country match any of the description above? How is it different?

2. Here are some “do’s and don’ts” which may help you in dealing with the English. Read them carefully and then make up similar pieces of advice about the Russians.

• Do remember to shake hands on first meetings. Do not, as the Germans do, shake hands on every occasion. People will find you strange.

• Do make direct eye-contact with your British counterpart, however remember to keep it to a minimum or it could be considered impolite or rude. Don’t stare them down.

• Do say ‘please’ and ‘thank you’ whenever possible. Even when you get off the bus. Do remember that you will hardly ever hear an outright ‘No’ from your partners. It is more likely that you will get an evasive or ambiguous response. So pay attention to the tone of voice and facial expression.

• Do accept a drink if offered. Remember it is your turn to buy the next round.

• Don’t fold your arms across your chest in a meeting. This indicates boredom.

• Don’t underestimate the importance of humour in all aspects of business in the UK. And keep in mind: the British do not announce their jokes. They just tell them.

• Don’t forget that instructions are often disguised as polite requests. “It is quite warm in here,” means “Could you please open the window? Now”.

• Don’t wear striped ties of you can help it as you might inadvertedly get associated with one of the fancier public schools when in fact it is just your personal taste.

• Don’t ask personal questions regarding your British counterpart’s background, occupation or income.

• Don’t talk in a loud voice or display disruptive behaviour. This is considered impolite and occasionally scares people. That is, unless you are in a pub.

• Don’t brag too much about your achievements, income, language skills, etc. It is ok to be proud of things, but be so in private.

3. Writing. Make a report on the topic “Why is it important to be culturally competent in the modern world?” (in not less than 600 words)