Seminar: Successful intercultural collaboration
Holistic approaches for global organisations.
In today’s global economy, it is standard practice to interact with multiple partners from very different cultural backgrounds. Such cultures can be regional or national, social, organisational or corporate cultures. Success in the modern work environment demands both the understanding of the influence of culture, and sensitivity in dealing with irreconcilable differences in culture.
This seminar comprises theory and practise regarding national (inter-)cultural behaviour, as well as extensive practical exercises concerning differing corporate cultures.
Seminar objectives: In this seminar, participants learn to navigate confidently and act more flexibly in increasingly complex cultural environments. Participants learn to avoid affronts and promote collaboration through an attitude of acknowledgement, empathy and clear communication.
The content comprises theoretical input with extensive practical exercises. Participants can also deepen their knowledge and practical skills using real material out of their own work environment.
Duration: 1–2 days, e.g. 9 am to 4 pm
Preparation
- Before starting the course, participants fill in an online questionnaire and receive preparatory material.
Content
- Developing awareness for cultures – Hofstede’s Cultural Dimensions
- Exploring various cultural models to understand behaviour
- Case studies of corporate cultures and their problems / solutions
- Understanding high and low context communication styles
- Understanding “Peach” and “Coconut” cultures
- Instilling a process of ongoing intercultural learning within the organisation
Methods
- Interactive group discussions: challenging scenarios, identifying intercultural issues, seeking effective resolutions
- Group exercises
- Practical role play scenarios
- Intervision
Handbook, quick reference cards and seminar service
- Detailed seminar handbook and handouts with exercises
- A5 quick reference cards as a brief summary
- Supplementary material and photographic minutes by email
- Support after the seminar: simply by email or using the Knowledge Blog – participants are welcome to ask questions and request tips after the seminar
Your communications skills trainer:
Cameron Paul studied German, French and Japanese in New Zealand. During his master's degree, he specialised in translation into his native language, English.
After his certification, he worked as a trainer in New Zealand, Japan, France, and England and now lives and works as a communication trainer in the Munich area.
For more than 25 years he has been supporting companies, individuals, and groups as a trainer, coach and mediator on topics such as professional communication, conflict management, group dynamics and decision-making processes.
Particular areas of expertise include the automotive industry (technology and management development), the chemical industry (diagnostics, biochemistry and silicone technology), lighting and electronics, software development for safety systems, psychology and psychotherapy, group leadership.
- Qualifications: Master (M. A.) in French Literature and Translation; Bachelor (B. A.) in German, French and Japanese; Numerous advanced training courses in the areas of training, group dynamics and personal development
- Activities: Communication trainer, coach and mediator, Psychological counsellor, Training in communication skills in English
- Seminar languages: English, German, French