• In managing global projects, it is essential to develop cultural self-awareness. The first, and most important, step is becoming aware of your own cultural orientations and the impact they can make in managing projects across cultures. You must prepare for cross-cultural project encounters with purpose and thoroughness. Here are a few dos and don'ts to consider.
DO
• Develop your cultural self-awareness.
• Set realistic expectations for yourself and others.
• Accept that you will make mistakes, but remain confident.
• Be patient.
• Slow down. Make relationships.
• Keep your sense of humor.
• Keep your integrity.
• Stay objective. Minimize blame.
DON'T :
• Assume similarity.
• Try to adopt the orientations of the other culture. Adaptation does not mean adoption.
• Dwell on comparing the other culture with your own.
• Evaluate the other culture in terms of good or bad.
• Assume that just being yourself is enough to bring you cross-cultural success.
DO
• Develop your cultural self-awareness.
• Set realistic expectations for yourself and others.
• Accept that you will make mistakes, but remain confident.
• Be patient.
• Slow down. Make relationships.
• Keep your sense of humor.
• Keep your integrity.
• Stay objective. Minimize blame.
DON'T :
• Assume similarity.
• Try to adopt the orientations of the other culture. Adaptation does not mean adoption.
• Dwell on comparing the other culture with your own.
• Evaluate the other culture in terms of good or bad.
• Assume that just being yourself is enough to bring you cross-cultural success.