What does the concept of these two dimensions mean for you as a leader? Why would it even matter? Today I write about these two elements knowing that it will help you not only function better in your job, but help you lead effectively. Before we begin, though, let me explain and define each …

  When most people arrive to a new culture they are mesmerized with their surroundings. In the scope of culture, this concept is called the “honeymoon phase.” It is quite normal for you to be intrigued when you arrive to a new country, but this love affair quickly ends when you must begin working with, …

Photo by Dane Deaner on Unsplash Helping women understand the cultural assumptions that drive business in foreign lands Both men and women can learn how to bow, kiss or shake hands effectively, but when it comes to global management, addressing deeper cultural issues is the challenge for both sexes. This challenge, however, is slightly more …

Through the years, there have been several theories used to describe culture. Since culture is so hard to describe, having a theory to try to explain it makes sense, but how much sense does it actually make when you are living in the midst of a new culture? Do you actually remember to apply the …

In China, companies are often asked to make sacrifices for the interest of the nation. That idea is strange for foreigners to grasp; however, you must be fully aware that if your organization decides to open operations in China, you must fully convince the government why your proposal is good for the nation, the economy …

  Below I tell a story of a mind-bending mystery from the world of folklore, see if you could solve it on your own, if you struggle, reach out to me for the answer:   People are always wishing. But once in China a man got his wish, which was to see the difference between heaven …

What does a global leader look like? Are they walking around with any distinct features, or special characteristics that brand or identify them? Just because you have an excellent executive in your home country who has given you great results year after year, doesn’t mean you can place them on a jet and send them …

In developing global leaders one of the most important principles is that a deep understanding of one’s relationship to one’s own culture is crucial for top performance in a new culture. Our customs, attitudes and ways of getting things done, things that we take for granted in our own lives, are not just “the way …

When communicating, the American is listening for signs that his or her individual accomplishments have been noted and appreciated: a compliment, a positive tone of voice, some evidence that the other person is impressed is what he or she is expecting. The American, however, is not likely to get much attention from some of their …