6.5 Cross-Cultural Assignments

Preparing for cross-cultural assignments is crucial for success in today's global business world. It involves developing cultural intelligence, participating in training programs, and seeking guidance from experienced expatriates. These steps help professionals navigate cultural differences and thrive in diverse work environments.

Effective preparation includes both low-rigor and high-rigor training methods, as well as predeparture and postarrival support. By combining these approaches, individuals can build a strong foundation of cultural knowledge, develop practical skills, and receive ongoing support throughout their international assignments.

Preparing for Cross-Cultural Assignments

Preparation for cross-cultural assignments

Top images from around the web for Preparation for cross-cultural assignments

• 

  Frontiers | The Impact of Expatriates’ Cross-Cultural Adjustment on Work Stress and Job ... View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  The Eight Cultural Forces - The lens & the lever — The Learner's Way View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  From Thought to Action: How Global Organizations Move Employees Past Cognitive Cultural ... View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  Frontiers | The Impact of Expatriates’ Cross-Cultural Adjustment on Work Stress and Job ... View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  The Eight Cultural Forces - The lens & the lever — The Learner's Way View original

  Is this image relevant?

1 of 3

Top images from around the web for Preparation for cross-cultural assignments

• 

  Frontiers | The Impact of Expatriates’ Cross-Cultural Adjustment on Work Stress and Job ... View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  The Eight Cultural Forces - The lens & the lever — The Learner's Way View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  From Thought to Action: How Global Organizations Move Employees Past Cognitive Cultural ... View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  Frontiers | The Impact of Expatriates’ Cross-Cultural Adjustment on Work Stress and Job ... View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  The Eight Cultural Forces - The lens & the lever — The Learner's Way View original

  Is this image relevant?

1 of 3

• Develop cultural intelligence
  • Cognitive CQ acquires knowledge about different cultures, norms, and practices (business etiquette, communication styles)
  • Metacognitive CQ develops awareness and understanding of cultural differences and adapts mental models accordingly (recognizing cultural biases, adjusting expectations)
  • Motivational CQ cultivates interest, confidence, and drive to engage effectively in cross-cultural interactions (setting goals, maintaining enthusiasm)
  • Behavioral CQ develops the ability to exhibit appropriate verbal and non-verbal actions in cross-cultural situations (language skills, gestures, facial expressions)
• Participate in cross-cultural training programs
  • Assess individual and organizational needs for cross-cultural training (job requirements, cultural distance)
  • Select appropriate training methods based on rigor, timing, and desired outcomes (lectures, simulations, immersive experiences)
  • Engage in predeparture and postarrival training to enhance cultural awareness, adaptability, and effectiveness (language courses, cultural briefings)
• Seek mentorship and guidance from experienced expatriates or cultural experts (former assignees, local colleagues)
• Learn the language and communication styles of the host country (Mandarin Chinese, indirect communication)
• Research the business practices, negotiation styles, and decision-making processes in the target culture (relationship-building, consensus-oriented)
• Develop a support network of colleagues, friends, and family members both in the home and host countries (expatriate communities, local social groups)
• Cultivate cultural competence through continuous learning and self-reflection

Low-rigor vs high-rigor training methods

• Low-rigor cross-cultural training methods
  • Passive learning approaches (lectures, books, videos)
  • Provide general cultural awareness and knowledge (country overviews, cultural dimensions)
  • Suitable for short-term assignments or when time and resources are limited (business trips, project-based work)
• High-rigor cross-cultural training methods
  • Experiential learning approaches (simulations, role-plays, immersive experiences)
  • Develop practical skills, cultural sensitivity, and adaptability (language immersion, cultural assimilators)
  • Suitable for long-term assignments or when deep cultural understanding is critical for success (expatriate assignments, leadership roles)
• Factors influencing the choice of training methods
  • Duration and complexity of the assignment (short-term vs long-term, technical vs managerial)
  • Cultural distance between home and host countries (similar vs dissimilar cultures)
  • Individual learning styles and preferences (visual, auditory, kinesthetic)
  • Available time, budget, and resources for training (in-house vs external providers)

Predeparture vs postarrival training benefits

• Predeparture cross-cultural training
  • Provides a foundation of cultural knowledge and awareness before the assignment begins (values, customs, taboos)
  • Helps expatriates develop realistic expectations and prepare for potential challenges (culture shock, work-life balance)
  • Allows time for language learning and practical preparations (visa, housing, schooling)
  • Enhances confidence and reduces anxiety about the upcoming assignment (mental preparation, stress management)
• Postarrival cross-cultural training
  • Offers real-time support and guidance during the initial adjustment period (on-the-job coaching, mentoring)
  • Addresses specific challenges and cultural issues encountered in the host country (conflict resolution, team dynamics)
  • Facilitates networking and relationship building with local colleagues and stakeholders (social events, community involvement)
  • Provides opportunities for ongoing learning and adaptation throughout the assignment (cultural workshops, feedback sessions)
• Benefits of combining predeparture and postarrival training
  • Ensures continuity and reinforcement of learning (building on predeparture knowledge, applying skills in context)
  • Allows for tailored support based on individual needs and experiences (personalized coaching, targeted interventions)
  • Enhances overall expatriate performance, satisfaction, and retention (job effectiveness, cultural adjustment, assignment completion)
  • Contributes to successful knowledge transfer and achievement of assignment objectives (local capacity building, organizational goals)

Cultural Adaptation and Management

• Develop intercultural communication skills to effectively interact with diverse colleagues and stakeholders
• Practice cultural relativism to understand and respect different cultural perspectives without judgment
• Implement cross-cultural management strategies to lead diverse teams and navigate cultural differences in the workplace
• Prepare for repatriation challenges and readjustment to the home culture after completing the assignment