Ever feel like everyone in your company is speaking a different language? You’re not alone. For companies with a global presence, this can be more than just a feeling. Managing a diverse, international team means navigating not only different cultures but also different native languages and work styles.
So how do you know the right approach? Should you simply follow the old adage, “When in Rome, do as the Romans do?” While there’s some truth to that, it’s not always how things play out in global business. Let’s dig into what really works.
Embracing Differences Across Borders
Different cultures get things done in different ways. For example, if you send a U.S. engineer to Germany, the way they tackled projects back home might not work the same way abroad. And when you’re investing in sending employees overseas, they’re not just continuing their work—they’re representing your company in an entirely new environment.
That’s why it’s important to pause and consider cultural differences, language barriers, work styles, and communication preferences. These factors can be the tipping point between a smooth international assignment and one that struggles to get off the ground.
Perception vs. Reality
We all bring perceptions to the table. Maybe your last international experience was challenging, or you’ve heard stories from colleagues about how things “really” work in certain countries. But at the end of the day, people are people, no matter where they’re from. Approaching new experiences with an open mind is key.
This is where a common language—not just in terms of words, but in business practices and cultural understanding—comes in handy. Helping everyone on your team understand each other’s communication preferences can make a huge difference. It’s the foundation for better teamwork and smoother collaboration.
Communication Styles Matter—More Than You Think
When it comes to solving problems, a common understanding makes everything easier. One of the biggest hurdles for global teams is recognizing that everyone has their own preferred way of communicating. It’s not about how you like to communicate—it’s about how they want to be communicated with. That small shift can make all the difference.
At PZI Group, we use workforce development tools and trainings to help our clients get to the heart of these differences and strengthen team dynamics through effective communication and interpersonal skills. When teams communicate well, they perform better—and that’s a win for everyone.
The Cost of Doing Nothing
If you don’t take the time to bridge these cultural and communication gaps, the cost could be much higher than the price of investing in team development—especially for global teams.
Whether you’re expanding into new markets or managing a multinational workforce, creating a shared understanding across borders is essential. Taking the time to build common ground pays off, both in the short term and long run. After all, when your team speaks the same language—literally and figuratively—everything else falls into place.