BUSINESS Group-F

ENVIRONMENT
CULTURE DIVERSITY
Culture is all socially transmitted and shared behaviors, manners, customs, rituals,
beliefs, ideas, arts, knowledge, values, morals and ideals that are learned in a group
of the same nationality, religion or ethnicity. It is handed down from generation to
generation, slowly evolving, and creating many subcultures in the process.
Cultural diversity can make communication difficult, especially in the workplace,
where a misunderstanding can cause costly problems. When people from different
cultures work together, several factors can become barriers. We’ll be taking a look at
these factors first, and then dive into how to overcome them in a global team.
CAUSES OF CULTURAL
BARRIERS
1. Language
2. Stereotypes and prejudices
3. Signs and symbols
4. Behaviors and belief
5. “Us” versus “them” (ethnocentrism)
HOW TO OVERCOME CROSS-
CULTURAL BARRIERS?
1. Embrace diversity and accommodate cultural differences
2. Promote open communication
3. Lead open discussions about team norms and shared company culture
4. Rally the team around a shared vision or common cause
5. Leading cultural diversity as a global leader