Connecting Across Cultures

Completing this course will help you

• Determine how culture influences perceptions, values, attitudes, communication style, and behavior of others.

• Analyze the impact of the level of individualism vs collectivism within a culture and determine how that is displayed in the workplace.

• Conclude when there is a difference among individuals’ perceptions on how power is distributed within

• organizations

• Identify a culture’s priority on time vs. relationships and the cultural drivers behind what is seen as right vs. wrong.

• Recognize differences in cultural communication styles and a culture’s work vs. life priorities.

5 Modules

1. 01

   The Influence of Culture

   During this kickoff module, we will explore the impact our culture has on our behavior and perceptions. We can increase productivity and decrease tension in our key relationships through careful consideration of our own culture and the cultural values of others.

2. 02

   Individualism vs. Collectivism

   During this module, we will explore a cornerstone set of cultural values: Individualism vs. Collectivism. Within cultures that have a stronger focus on Individualism, members will tend to focus on individual goals and the rights of the individual person. In Collectivistic cultures, members tend to prefer group goals, what is best for the collective group, and personal relationships.

3. 03

   Power Distance & Uncertainty Avoidance

   Different cultures view the role of authority differently. Some cultures value hierarchy and structure and other cultures value equality and openness. In this session, we will explore the cultural implications of the amount of direction people expect from their leaders and the need for eliminating ambiguity.

4. 04

   Concept of Time & Universalism vs. Particularism

   Time is a universally accepted concept but viewed and managed very differently depending on cultural values. During this session, we will explore the cultural viewpoints of time and how they impact relationships and results. We will also explore how cultures see different definitions of what is right or wrong.

5. 05

   Communication Styles & Activity Orientation

   Have you ever tried communicating with someone from a different culture and it seemed like you were not connecting? It is possible that cultural communication challenges were at play in the conversation. During this session, we will explore typical communication approaches for different cultures and how to adjust your style to meet the needs of others.

Leader Behaviors