Similar brings us together…
I enjoy sharing Korean business insights. This insight is one of my most popular.
I often say “Similar brings us together…”
Global business requires colleagues of different cultures to work together daily.
How we perceive each other culturally is often based on differences, such as language, and similarities, like shared values such as family. I prefer to concentrate on the similarities, as differences can create distance while similarities unite us.
It is crucial for Western teams collaborating with Korean operations to gain a deep understanding of the workplace culture in Korea, including the 2024 norms, practices, and daily life. The workplace is under constant change, and we can easily fixate on things that may have been distorted by hearsay or a lack of understanding.
The same principle applies to Korean global teams assigned to support overseas operations. We all need to become learners, adept in local and overseas practices. Expecting global teams to conform to Korean business norms rarely works; it often leads to delays and stalled projects.
As I noted above, recognizing similarities is one of the most powerful cross-cultural bridges. In other words, how can you relate to the nuances in communications and day-to-day life? This requires identifying the local beliefs, values, expectations, traditions, and culture
The information provided helps us gain a deeper understanding of how our teams think and what they expect.
Outcomes
Although there is bound to be friction between home and host country cultural values, a successful model accomplishes…
1. Awareness and appreciation of the home and host country with the ability to gain insight into one’s personal traits, strengths, weaknesses, attitudes, and interests.
2. Realization of shared cross-cultural values, along with an awareness of and respect for cultural differences.
Call to Action
Are you dealing with Korea-facing issues, challenges, or impasses? I provide workarounds and solutions.