As the principle partners in KamelionWorldTM, we have experienced at first hand the effects of cultural differences on people and companies in different countries around the world. With backgrounds gained in leading multinationals and training consultancies, we have also seen how ‘one size fits all’ solutions can sometimes provide a quick fix, but never a lasting solution to matters of intercultural relationship, teamwork and leadership. They can all too often backfire as managers revert to their ‘normal’ selves after a period of trying to adjust without success.
Cultural Presuppositions
The fact is that our own thinking styles, personality and experience give us different presuppositions* about people, culture and what drives success. As a result, there are certain managers who are able to drive global deals, take on new responsibilities or foreign assignments with a natural ability to fit in and be effective. For such people, we provide preparation and a good start before they simply run ahead by themselves. Yet for many others, experiencing and adapting to foreign cultures can be a major challenge, whether they are managing remote teams or living in a new location. These managers need on-going assistance, sometimes in the form of coaching or monthly updates to become successful during their assignment. Both of these personality types can become very successful - but the way of informing and training them must, by definition, be very different and focused on their particular needs.
Handling their personal situation and then coupling that with the unique personality of their company, brand and business strategy necessitates an individual approach. Trying to make do with a standardized training ritual has resulted in enough case studies documenting failure – nearly always described as a painful experience for everyone involved.
The Right Blend of Global and Local
At KamelionWorldTM, we feel that pain, and we want to do something about it. That’s why our global team consists only of experienced local practitioners in the field who have all previously worked in multinational environments. That’s why we have a healthy mix of Anglo-Saxon, African and Eastern experience to draw upon in finding solutions for the true intercultural challenges of the 21st century. And that’s why we embrace strong central contact with our clients but always seek effective local implementation which meets the needs of your managers and your company philosophy.
* A presupposition is an assumption about the world or a fundamental belief relating to ‘truisms’ that are simply taken for granted. Simple examples:
- “Shall we do it again?” - The presupposition is that you have already done it before
- “ ...discuss this when you hold your weekly team meeting“ - The presupposition is that it is normal for you to hold such team meetings