We have been approached about the development of an elearning programme to help overseas visitors when they come to the UK to do business. Is there a need for this type of training and if so, what cultural and social issues and problems might they come across? Have you any first hand knowledge or experience?
Renee Raper
3 Responses
Cultural Training
Hi Renee,
It can be dangerous to generalise but I would suggest this might be a topic not best suited to e-learning but without knowing more, it is hard to say.
If you would like to talk it through, please feel free to call me on 01425 489832 or mail me at gary.homes@changescape.com
Regards,
Gary
e-learning……….hmmm!
Hi Renee,
I couldn’t agree more with Gary’s comments! I have worked extensively abroad and yes; there is definitely a requirement for this type of training.
As for using e-learning for this subject matter, I believe that this is not the way forward. Cultural differences are not limited to the way we do business, but extends to some major issues such as gender, religion, language & protocols to name but a few! These important areas require first hand experience and discussions.
I would not dismiss e-learning, but feel that sharing experiences with a face to face scenario would achieve more realistic learning. The main issue, I believe is attitude – one of the most challenging objectives to achieve!
Should you wish to discuss this in more detail, please feel free to drop me a mail.
Regards,
Clive
cliveodonnell@hotmail.com
Culture Shock! Books
Hello Renee!
Having lived and worked in countries (US,UK, France, Belgium) other than my native country, I can tell you there are huge differences and culture shocks to experience. Personally, I have found the Culture Shock! books very helpful. You can buy them from Amazon.com and you have them on most countries in the world. Extremely useful as it goes into how business is conducted in a specific country, but also discusses social issues (from how to hand out your business card to how to accept a gift you receive to how to conduct meetings in other countries etc.)
It is self study, but I liked it and found it helpful.
Kind regards,
Renée