Ability to see cultural differences. And adapt.
Have you ever heard the Asians, Europeans, and Americans working together? They didn’t always have a good time.
After two years of working with people from different cultures, I have learned and picked up some lessons that I truly believe have helped me, and some lessons I think others would benefit from.
Accept differences
This might sound obvious and common and people tend to say they do accept other cultures, but actions speak louder than words, and sometimes it is simply not the case. Whether this is the way people work, the way they negotiate, the way they express themselves, you need to accept that it might be different from what you are used to. This does not mean you should become evasive and accept everything the other part do. I think you should always stand up for your beliefs and have a confrontation if it is necessary, just make sure you do it for the right reasons.
Understand where the other person comes from
This is a big one and accounts for both personal- and professional life. I have heard many times: “He/she doesn’t like me”. Don’t worry people, that’s just how some Northern Europeans are. Expecting to be boyfriend and girlfriend after the third date? I can tell you that it will be a cultural crash if you expect a Norwegian to say yes to that, but for many, that is their impression and generalization of Europe and North America, and those generalizations reflect that in their expectations. Don’t generalize a continent or people, talk to them on a personal level, everyone is unique.
In a business example, many cultures find Northern Europeans hard to work with because we are direct and for some, it is seen as aggression. Don’t worry, it is usually not, it’s just how we communicate. You have to understand where they are coming from and what the true message behind what they are saying.
Be open-minded and empathic
If you are a European, chances are you will find that your work- and communications culture is different from what you are used to. Meet other cultures half-way. Maybe it is time to be less direct and understand that you can come off as aggressive. Write those few extra words that make an email more friendly and remember that your way is not always the best way. There are always aspects of cultures we can learn from and make us grow as people. Make sure you look for those aspects and improve.