Yes, I do believe in guardian angels

So...growing up Lutheran, my best friend was Catholic. And then I married one. A Catholic, that is. Oh, and a best friend! ;) But there were certain things about Catholicism that bothered me--even after I converted. I don't remember being taught these things; I thought they were just my own...interpretations, for lack of a better word. But, apparently, I was taught. I just don't remember all those Sunday School lessons all too well. Or rather, I remember the lessons, just not the teaching or learning of the lessons.

Anyway, a couple of mysteries were solved for me when I researched the factors behind this article. http://bit.ly/UWcxD6

Yes, I know. This isn't a work related topic. In fact, far from it. You never talk religion at work! But...religion is yet another indicator of culture. Understanding different religions does help you understand how to relate to different people. So, no, I'm not suggesting you talk about religion at work. Still, it doesn't hurt to develop an understanding....

And as to the last statement in the article: Yes. I do believe in guardian angels. Is there a one-to-one ratio? I won't attempt to guess at that. I'm just thankful he/she/they are out there. They've "guarded" me in such spectacular ways I can't help but believe them!

Collaborating in a Multicultural Environment

Working in a multicultural environment can offer rewarding experiences, allowing you to collaborate with colleagues who have perspectives and world views that are different from your own. But understanding those different perspectives can be challenging. Language barriers and conflicting cultural expectations can build walls between team members that prevent true collaboration. Honing up on your interpersonal skills will prepare you to break down those walls and put you on the path to success.

Active Listening

Active listening skills are a must. Focus your attention on the speaker and listen closely to what is being said. Ignore distractions. Don't try multitasking, and don't tune out because your colleague’s dialect, accent or unfamiliar speech pattern is frustrating. You also need to put your own thoughts on hold. In other words, don't stop listening because you're already thinking about how to respond. Wait until your colleague has finished talking, and then repeat back what you think you heard to make sure you fully understand. If she says you've got it wrong, ask her some probing questions until you get it right.

Observation

Observation is another critical skill that is linked closely with active listening. Pay attention to the body language of co-workers. Look for visual clues in facial expressions and body positioning to gauge how a colleague feels about the topic --- but be careful not to misinterpret non-verbal cues that might be culturally based. Your colleague might be avoiding eye contact as a show of respect. If you jump to the conclusion that she is being dishonest, odds are you will stop listening and observing, which works against your efforts to collaborate. While it is fairly easy to recognize frustration or anger, truly understanding non-verbal cues might take some time. Adjust your own responses to prevent conflict and build trust.

Verbal and Written Communication

In all forms of communications, think globally, not locally. Not everyone will be accustomed to the words and phrases you use every day. Even if your colleagues are from cultures in which English is the primary language, they can use words differently -- and it gets more complicated when English is a secondary language. Imagine how using the word "okay" in an email can be misinterpreted: The intent might be to say you understand, while the recipient might assume you are agreeing to or authorizing something. Try to put yourself in the recipient's mindset to construct a message that anticipates her questions and answers them up front. Avoid slang terms and colloquialisms. Use simple sentence structures. Provide clear facts and carefully constructed conclusions.

Adaptability

You might need to change some of your own work habits to adapt to the expectations of a culturally diverse team. Remember that not all of your colleagues will perceive issues, situations or concepts exactly as you do. Their thoughts will be formed by their own knowledge and experiences. You can learn from what they have to offer, if you pay attention and keep an open mind. Strive to be non-judgmental and empathetic to build a bridge to mutual respect.

References

Harvard Business Review: HBR Blog Network -- Listening Is Critical in Today's Multicultural Workplace http://blogs.hbr.org/cs/2011/03/shhh_listening_is_critical_in.html

Creating WE: Vital Conversations -- Weaving the Golden Threads of Trust http://www.creatingwe.com/news-media/newspaper-magazine/430-vital-conversations-weaving-the-golden-threads-of-trust