Department of English

Session No: 8

Topic: Building Global Competence

 Understanding global work cultures and professional etiquette
 Differences in communication styles, decision-making, and
leadership across cultures

 Cross-Cultural Communication
 Importance of cultural sensitivity and awareness
CREATED BY K. VICTOR BABU
 AIM OF THE SESSION

1. To help students understand the global work cultures, professional

etiquettes, differences in communication style, decision making, leadership
across cultures, cross- cultural communication, cultural sensitivity, and
awareness. INSTRUCTIONAL OBJECTIVES
This session is designed to help students:

1. To understand global work cultures

2. To develop Effective Cross-Cultural Communication Skills
3. To enhance Leadership and Decision-Making Across Cultures

LEARNING OUTCOMES

At the end of this session, you should be able to:

1. To understand different global work cultures and professional etiquettes.
2. To communicate effectively across various cultural contexts.
3. To lead and make decisions thoughtfully in diverse teams.
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 Contents

1. What is global competence?

2. Understanding global work cultures
3. Professional Etiquettes
4. Differences in Communication Styles
5. How Decisions are made in Diverse Settings?
6. Leadership across cultures
7. What is cross-cultural communication?
8. How aware are you of cultural sensitivity?
9. Self Assessment Questions
10.Empower book exercise
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 Global Competence

Global Competence is the ability to understand, communicate,

and work effectively across cultures in an interconnected world.
It involves:
• Knowledge of global issues, cultures, and traditions.
• Skills to interact respectfully and communicate effectively across
cultures.
• Attitudes of openness, curiosity, and cultural sensitivity.
• Action to collaborate and solve global challenges with
awareness.
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 Key Elements of Global Competence
1. Understanding global cultures and perspectives.
2. Effective Communication across diverse cultural contexts.
3. Building Relationships with cultural sensitivity.
4. Problem-Solving for global challenges in professional and personal settings.
Tools for Building Global Competence
5. Online cultural training platforms (e.g., Hofstede Insights, GlobeSmart).
6. Language-learning apps (e.g., Duolingo, Rosetta Stone).
7. Communication tools (e.g., Zoom with multilingual features).
Best Practices:
8. Join international networking groups.
9. Seek mentorship from globally experienced professionals.

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 Understanding Global Work Cultures
 Each country has distinct work cultures and etiquette norms.
Cultural Differences in Workplace Norms and Practices
Refers to the variations in behaviors, expectations, and standards that exist
across different cultures in professional environments. These differences are
shaped by cultural values, traditions, and societal norms.
Key Aspects:
1. Work hours and work-life balance
Some cultures prioritize long working hours (e.g., Japan), while others
emphasize work-life balance (e.g., France).
2. Teamwork Styles
 Individualistic cultures (e.g., USA) focus on personal achievements.
 Collectivist cultures (e.g., Japan) emphasize group harmony and
teamwork.
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 Understanding Global Work Cultures
3. Authority and Hierarchy
 Hierarchical cultures (refers to a cultural framework where power, authority, and decision-
making are structured in a top-down manner, with clear levels of authority and respect for seniority)
respect seniority and formal chains of command (e.g., India, South
Korea).
 Egalitarian cultures (refers to a cultural framework where equality is emphasized, and power,
authority, and decision-making are more shared and distributed among individuals, regardless of rank
or status) prefer
flatter structures and open communication (e.g.,
Sweden, Denmark).

These differences impact how individuals interact, collaborate, and lead

in global workplaces, making it essential to understand and adapt to
cultural norms for effective teamwork and communication.
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 Professional Etiquettes
 Cultural Awareness
Be mindful of cultural differences in communication and work styles.
Example: In Japan, bowing is a common greeting, while in the U.S., a
handshake is preferred.
 Punctuality
Arriving on time is valued differently across cultures.
Example: In Germany, punctuality is seen as a sign of respect, while in some
Mediterranean countries, there is more flexibility with time.
 Respect for Hierarchy
Different countries have varying attitudes toward authority and hierarchy in
the workplace.
Example: In India, employees often defer to senior managers, whereas in
Australia, a more egalitarian approach is common.
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 Professional Etiquettes
 Body Language
Non-verbal cues vary across cultures.
Example: Eye contact is seen as a sign of confidence in the U.S., but can be
considered disrespectful in some Asian cultures.
 Email and Written Communication
Email tone and formality levels differ by culture.
Example: In the U.K., emails are often more formal and structured, while in
the U.S., they can be more casual and to the point.

Play the video for Professional Etiquette Tips for Success

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sgY18jv9TtA
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 Differences in Communication Styles
Cultural differences significantly influence communication styles, shaping
how people express themselves, interpret messages, and engage with others.
Below are some key aspects of communication styles across cultures:
1.Direct vs. Indirect Communication
A. Direct (e.g., USA, Germany): Explicit and clear messages. Honesty and
straightforwardness are valued.
Example: A manager might say, "This work is not up to standard. Please
revise it.”
B. Indirect (e.g., Japan, India): Subtle, relying on context. Context and
non-verbal cues play a significant role.
Example: Instead of directly rejecting an idea, someone might say, "That’s
an interesting perspective; we’ll think about it."
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 Differences in Communication Styles
1.High-Context vs. Low-Context Cultures
A. High-Context (e.g., China, Middle East): Relies on shared
understanding and non-verbal cues. Words may carry less
weight than the situation or tone.
Example: A nod might mean agreement, even if no words are
spoken.

B. Low-Context (e.g., USA, Scandinavia): Prioritizes explicit

verbal communication. Little is left to interpretation.
Example: Agreements are often written down rather than
implied.
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 Differences in Communication Styles

3. Formal vs. Informal Styles

A. Formal (e.g., Japan, Germany): Respect for hierarchy and
protocols. Titles, honorifics, and polite language are used.
Example: In Japan, addressing someone with the correct honorific
(e.g., "San" or "Sensei") is essential.

B. Informal (e.g., Australia, USA): Casual and relaxed. First-name basis

and casual language are common.
Example: An employee might call their boss by their first name in
Australia.
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 Differences in Communication Styles

To bridge cultural communication differences:

•Learn about the culture: Understand their norms and values.

•Be observant: Watch for verbal and non-verbal cues.
•Adapt your approach: Match the level of directness, formality,
or emotional expression.
•Ask for clarification: Politely confirm understanding to avoid
miscommunication.

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 How Decisions Are Made in Diverse Settings
Decision making is the process of choosing between multiple options,
often by considering the pros and cons of each choice and its potential
consequences.
Approaches to Decision Making
1.Consensus-Oriented (e.g., Japan, Sweden):
 Decisions are made collectively, with input from all stakeholders.
Example: In Japanese businesses, the "Ringi system" involves circulating
proposals for approval.
2. Authoritative (e.g., China, Russia):
 Leaders or senior figures make decisions with little input from
subordinates.
Example: In Chinese organizations, decisions often reflect the leader’s
vision.
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 How Decisions Are Made in Diverse Settings
3. Individualistic (e.g., USA, Australia):
 Emphasis on personal responsibility and quick decision-
making by individuals.
Example: Entrepreneurs in the U.S. are encouraged to take
risks and act independently.

4. Relationship-Oriented (e.g., India, Middle East):

 Decisions are influenced by personal relationships and trust.
Example: In India, business decisions may involve extended
discussions to build rapport.
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 How Decisions Are Made in Diverse Settings

Tips for Successful Decision Making:

•Understand Cultural Norms: Research decision-making
preferences in advance.
•Build Trust: Foster relationships to facilitate smoother
decisions.
•Be Flexible: Adapt to the decision-making style of the group.
•Encourage Participation: Ensure diverse perspectives are
included.

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 Leadership Across Cultures
Leadership is the ability to guide, influence, or lead other people, teams, or
organizations. Some characteristics of effective leaders include:
•Integrity: Having integrity and being self-aware
•Courage: Having courage and compassion
•Respect: Showing respect to others
•Resilience: Being resilient
•Communication: Communicating the vision and collaborating effectively
Examples of Successful Leaders Across Cultures:
 USA: Jeff Bezos (Amazon) – Transformational leader driving innovation
and customer focus.
 China: Jack Ma (Alibaba) – Charismatic leader inspiring entrepreneurship
and perseverance.
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 Leadership Across Cultures
 Sweden: Ingvar Kamprad (IKEA) – Participative leader fostering
employee contributions.
 India: Sundar Pichai (Google) – Adaptive leader balancing global
and local perspectives.
Practical Tips for Global Leaders:
•Adaptability: Tailor leadership style to the cultural context.
•Cultural Awareness: Understand the values and expectations of
your team.
•Empathy: Build trust and rapport across diverse backgrounds.
•Effective Communication: Be mindful of direct vs. indirect styles.
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 Cross-Cultural Communication
Cross-cultural communication
is the process of exchanging
information and meaning
between people from different
cultural backgrounds.

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 Cross-Cultural Communication
Key Aspects to Consider:
1. Language and Translation:
 Misinterpretations can occur due to language differences.
1. Example: In a business meeting, "yes" in Japan may mean "I
understand" rather than agreement.
: An Indian colleague’s avoidance of saying "no" may
confuse Western team members.
2. Non-Verbal Communication:
 Gestures and expressions have varied meanings.
1. Example: A thumbs-up is positive in the U.S. but offensive in some
Middle Eastern countries.

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 Cross-Cultural Communication
3. Context (High vs. Low):
 High-context cultures (e.g., Japan, India) rely on implicit communication and
shared understanding.
Low-context cultures (e.g., USA, Germany) emphasize direct and explicit
communication.
4. Time Orientation:
 Monochronic cultures (a work style and cultural belief system that
emphasizes doing one thing at a time, being punctual, and valuing schedules)
value punctuality.
Example: Germany
 Polychronic cultures (a culture that prioritizes relationships and simultaneous
activities over schedules and punctuality) have a flexible approach to time.
Example: Mexico
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lMplUEgo5YQ Play the video for Tips.
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 How aware are you of cultural sensitivity?

Cultural sensitivity is the awareness and respect for cultural differences in

values, behaviors, and communication styles.
Examples: Participating in Diwali celebrations in India.
Recognizing Ramadan in Middle Eastern teams
Why It Matters:
1.Enhances collaboration in diverse teams.
2.Reduces misunderstandings and conflicts.
3.Fosters inclusive environments.
Key Elements:
1. Awareness of your own cultural biases.
2. Openness to learning about other cultures.
3. Adapting behavior to show respect for cultural norms.
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 How aware are you of cultural sensitivity?

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 Activity
Research Task
Choose a country or region and research its work culture. Use the following
questions as a guide:

1. What is the communication style (e.g., direct, high-context, formal)?

_______________________________________________________

2. How are decisions typically made (e.g., hierarchical, collaborative)?

_______________________________________________________

3. What is the attitude toward time and deadlines (e.g., punctuality,

flexibility)?
_______________________________________________________
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 Self Assessment Questions
1. Which of the following best describes "global competence"?
A. The ability to speak multiple languages fluently.
B. The skill to analyze local problems without external influence.
C. The capacity to understand and act on issues of global
significance while respecting cultural diversity.
D. The knowledge of international trade and economics.
2. What is the first step in developing global competence?
A. Memorizing international laws and treaties.
B. Recognizing and appreciating cultural differences.
C. Learning a new foreign language.
D. Traveling to multiple countries.

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 Empower Book Exercise

References:
1. OECD (2018).Preparing our Youth for an Inclusive and Sustainable World: The OECD
PISA Global Competence Framework.
2. Cheng, K.-M. (2004).Globalization, Localization, and Individualization of Education
for Global Competence.
3. Barrett, M., Byram, M., Lázár, I., Mompoint-Gaillard, P., & Philippou, S.
(2013).Developing Intercultural Competence through Education. UNESCO
Publishing.
4. UNESCO (2021).Global Citizenship Education. Available at:
https://en.unesco.org/themes/gced
5. World Economic Forum (2020).Future of Jobs Report. Available at:
https://www.weforum.org/

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 THANK YOU
Team – Communication Skills for
Engineers

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