A cross cultural experience_What is it?

• Engels
• MBO
• Studiejaar 3

Cultures and business

Introduction

Goals of the period

- Discuss cross cultural differences

- Build awareness about differences in the business world

- and of course.... improve your English skills

What is culture?

Discuss the picture.

- Who are they? (Bush and Abdullah, from Saudia Arabia)

- What are your feelings when you see this picture? Why?

- Why are they holding hands?

-Is that different from your own culture?

What does this mean?

In most parts of the world (even on Facebook), thumbs-up is a harmless, even positive sign. It suggests that you are looking to hitch a ride, or that you like something. However, should you find yourself in Iran, add this to the long list of things to avoid. Believe it or not, it’s akin to giving the one-finger-salute. Now, could that be why Facebook is banned there?

Which shirt would an Englishman wear to work?

Mention the differences regarding workplace dress code in different countries.

Can you come up with other differences?

Listening

1. Open the worksheet available on SBIS.

2. Do exercise 1.

3. Watch the following extract of the TED talk "Cross Cultural Communication" and answer exercises 2 - 4.

Discussion

In groups, discuss the following question:

HOW DO CULTURAL DIFFERENCES AFFECT BUSINESS?

Share your opinion with the group.