Howdy David and MG-ED-DV list,
After 9 years in international management as an American in Canada (if you
think that one is a "no-brainer" beware) So. Africa, Korea, Thailand,
Philippines for a large US based multinational company my thoughts are:
I would provide some short context, i.e. cultural difference appreciation
(Hofstede's work).
Next, I would do some role plays with some people who are recently from
another country. We have found difficulty/frustration when we expected 2nd
language English speakers to use 'our' pronunciation and to interpret our
meaning in our assumed way. Not to mention, at least in Asia, the
reluctance for them to disagree or ask us to slow down, or to ask a
question,(in the name of politeness or 'face saving') rather they smile and
nod--causing us to a s s u m e again that they understood----dangerous when
transacting personal or company business! The 'role plays' could be
designed with enough technical/business jargon and context for the learner
to have to explain and the other person to have to then repeat or do some
task. Listening skills are key even in first to first language but when you
through things like Judeo-Christian (JC) VS Non JC and language into it.
Look out.
Another good one I was recently asked to advise on involved a very
bright/young female who went to Asia for a few months of 'project' work-- -
is No. American sexual harassment laws/expectations---remember it is not a
matter or "right or wrong"- that is for your values/government/courts to
decide-- other peoples may see it differently.
I would sum up this horribly long post with 2 key skills that I think are
critical in looking for qualified leaders for international assignments:
Flexibility and Cultural/Language appreciation. The peoples (your
leaders/managers) skills in leadership/management and functional technical
performance records I am thinking are at least partially proven or they
wouldn't be considered for the 'expat' assignment.
Then the Chaos/Wheatley's work is also appropriate-chaotic is how you feel
some time-because often your normal 'haven' of familiarity are missing even
after work hours. Be careful about being to high-tech/new leadership
'flavor of the month'. Concentrate on basics.
FOR WHAT ITS WORTH
Sorry for length.
CHEERIO
Jack
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