Digital White Papers

10 WWW.ILTANET.ORG | ILTA WHITE PAPER POTPOURRI Keeping Innovation Strategies On Track Across Global Cultural Lines Far too often, firms minimize the importance of cultural differences when delivering an innovation strategy. Challenging Cultural Differences Far too oen, firms minimize the importance of cultural differences when delivering an innovation strategy. The key to challenging these cultural differences is motivating people of different backgrounds, priorities and skill sets with a common vision that supersedes regional interests. The simple process of asking questions to find out what is most important to the team or individual in any engagement goes a long way. Your usual business language and communication style may need modification to be acceptable in other regions. Terms such as "done," "handled" or "acceptable" can mean different things to different people. Identify key decision-makers and find out how to present yourself when communicating with senior hierarchy. Also try to determine if there are specific cultural superstitions or etiquee to be adopted. In China, for example, the number four is considered bad luck and can affect many aspects of a discussion, approach or decision. Be patient, and do not assume that your method or practice is the only way. Accept that people from other cultures might be beer at negotiating due to ingrained skills and cultural values, and understand how to align forces for mutually beneficial outcomes. Advice to Self Learning to work across cultures is a balance of developing cultural sensitivities through your own experiences and following the trusted advice of those who have been down similar roads. When we asked our sources to reflect on their experiences and tell us what advice they would give, the consistent themes we heard centered on asking, listening and fostering respectful communication. Here are key tips from our experts: » Ask questions, assume nothing and explain everything » Listen and observe to understand structure » Avoid appearing judgmental or superior in your communication » Converse with people instead of talking at them » Focus on the positive » Find a mentor you trust » Remember that the same words can have different meanings in different areas If you or others around you shut down due to cultural offenses, innovation will also be slowed or even stopped entirely.

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