Dealing with cultural differences in the workplace

Cultural differences in the workplace can be tricky. Manners, symbols, rituals and customs can be very different and cause conflict. A great advantage of cultural differences in the workplace is that it also offers many opportunities. In this article, we explain why and how you can learn from cultural differences. 

Conflicts due to cultural differences in the workplace

'The Dutch culture'

We live in a multicultural society. We have colleagues or clients from different countries and with different customs. 'Dutch culture' with its accompanying norms and values is often taken for granted. We are no longer aware of our actions.

Peanut butter sandwich

We shake hands with our new customer, eat a peanut butter sandwich at break, and are very direct to our colleagues. This is by no means the case everywhere. Cultural differences, if not understood, can create communication problems. 

Knowing, recognizing and deepening

A common cause of problems surrounding cultural differences is the manner of communication. A good example is the fact that Dutch people are often perceived as "direct" and Japanese, for example, as indirect. Knowing this, recognizing it, and immersing yourself in the differences between cultures is incredibly valuable for you as a person, as well as for you as an employee or employer.

Cultural difference actually provides opportunities

Scoring better as a company

Several studies show that diversity is very important for organizations. In fact, many organizations with a wide variety of cultures score better than those where this is not the case. Cultural differences within a company actually offer opportunities.

Stand out in the marketplace

Cultural diversity, for example, can be a good way for companies to stand out in the marketplace. When properly handled within an organization, this diversity will be especially beneficial.

The 4 golden tips for good intercultural communication

What can you do to turn cultural differences into a strength? Here are four tips that both employers and employees can use to learn from other cultures.

Deepening

When you know more about another person and another person's culture, you will understand them better. Immerse yourself in that one colleague. Go for a walk together during your break, have a cup of coffee and ask questions. You will see that by deepening you will get a different view of that person. 

Acceptance 

Don't try to change someone's character. By doing so, you will never achieve the desired result, probably even the opposite. Keep in mind the possible reaction when you criticize, for example, always with his or her cultural origin in mind.

Communications

There it is again, the term communication. But then, in so many facets, communication is an important tool for getting to know and better understand others. Sometimes it is wise to use a mediator. This is also a good way to solve conflicts between people from different cultures. Johan.nl helps you find the right mediator. 

Compatible 

New employees with the same values are more likely to feel at home within your organization. They are more satisfied and more committed to the organization. You don't have to worry that all employees will look alike; ambition and motivations go beyond country of origin or religion.

Coaching via Johan.nl

The various collaborations on the Johan.nl portal have created an independent digital ecosystem. In this ecosystem, supply and demand come together to work on the best possible working situation. On the portal, you have insight into your health and functioning, access to products to develop yourself, and control over your own data. All this while maintaining privacy, in a safe and fun environment. Discover Johan.nl! 

Achieve success with Johan.nl

With proper coaching you can achieve success from the cultural differences in your organization. Wondering what Johan.nl can do for your organization? Contact one of our consultants to discuss the possibilities of Johan.nl and what it can offer your organization.