
Expat life introduces a myriad of unique challenges, especially when it comes to navigating relationships, both in professional settings and at home.
With a deep understanding of the nuances involved, we've curated practical steps to bridge cultural divides and strengthen interpersonal connections.
Before delving into potentially tricky conversations with coworkers or your significant other, consider these proactive steps to establish positive intercultural relationships:
First: knowing yourself.
Think about how your own background—your culture, beliefs, quirks—affects how you interact with others. Ever wondered why you react a certain way to different people or situations? Understanding that can help you hit pause before you react impulsively.
Next, throw out the stereotypes.
Take the time to understand where others are coming from culturally. Be curious! Read up on different cultures and try to see things from their perspective. It'll help you break down barriers and build connections.
Now, onto communication.
We all know it's tough, especially across cultures. So, be crystal clear in your communication. Even a simple argument can spiral into confusion if not communicated calmly and comprehensively. No room for misinterpretation here!
Lastly, trust.
It's the glue that holds relationships together. Be flexible and open-minded, adapting your approach to fit different cultural norms. And remember, you can't change others, but you can definitely change how you react to others. Focus on building trust, and watch those relationships flourish!
These steps were drawn from our reading of the research "Intercultural Competencies for Culturally Diverse Work Teams" published in the Journal of Managerial Psychology, with a touch of our own experience and interpretation.
Hoping to see you next week, same spot, right here on our blog!
Share with friends and woman you care about!
Love from this warm and culturally diverse Brazilian architect, multi-interested project manager, and dreamer of a changing impact in women's lives abroad,
Bianca Caldas
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