Useful Individual Attitudes

A positive, open attitude is important for cross-cultural managers. Be respectfully curious about other cultures and attitudes. Take the time to learn about the motivations behind your employee’s actions to give their behavior context. The way they behave might even have nothing to do with culture!

As well, be sure to focus on the person and avoid judgments or assumptions. Rather than thinking, “Well, she’s from that culture, so that must be why she did that,” ask yourself an open question like, “What made her respond the way that she did?”

Don’t forget about basic management tools, like communicating effectively, setting expectations, and being a positive role model. These behaviors will serve you well no matter what cultural context you are working in.