So that is why  I ask the question, “As leaders, are we really sure what we are conveying with our gestures?”

I recall a contract I was working on where I had the role to assess an organization’s readiness for an enterprise system implementation. The senior management for the most part were from North America. Middle management and most of the employee base ( about 80-90% ) were Asian. In fact, new immigrants to Canada. In a session of reviewing the orgnaization’s performance, the senior management was totally animated. Arms, hands flapping and pointing- pleading for feedback from their employees. The pleads were sincere however totally ineffective.

In fact the more animated the pleads, the more withdrawn the employees became.

The reasons were so obvious to me and yet perplexing for so many in the room.

Culture, my friends. Values, protocols totally mis-aligned and consequently ineffective motivators.

Gestures are taboo in many Asian countries. Depending on that gesture it could be perceived as being totally disrespectful. Needless to say, gestures such as pointing, especially with the index finger, are taboo although directing with the full hand is usually acceptable.

Using the left hand for any public purpose usually is unacceptable in many Middle Eastern countries.

Another good example is the gesture below.

In a brief post on cultural differences, they do a good summary of the use of the North American O.K. sign in different cultures.

In Brazil, Germany, Russia, Denmark, Italy and Guatemala

• This sign is an insult! (post publication: my readers have shared it is not really an insult in Germany and Italy- good to know)

In Japan

• This gesture stands for coins and money.  So you need to watch your gestures  in Japan in that it could be  misinterpreted as requesting a bribe when making a transaction! So if you are feeling good about a transaction, you are better off saying so and not using this sign.

UK and US

• It means O.K.  An approval or a feel good sign.

So as a leader, if you find that you are being ineffective in certain situations you may want to do a “mental replay” of a meeting or incidence to better understand what could have been the reason. Take a closer look at your own body language and animation.

….And be careful on how you wave your hands around! LOL!

Cheers!

Shirley

Related articles

• Global Leadership: How Much Skin Is Enough? (williampearl.wordpress.com)
• Interesting Cultural Difference (DITTO Translation Agency)
• Talk With Your Hands

Photo by aussiegall (great pics)

What struck me was the important reminder of our global make-up. It really does put things into perspective.

I think this is key information we should keep in mind when we are travelling or negotiating with different cultures. I thought this would make a good post that we both could reflect upon. Here goes…

IF A VILLAGE OF 1000 PEOPLE REPRESENTED THE WORLD’S POPULATION THEN…

• Fact: Only 51 would represent North America; Only 45 would represent Western Europe. This is less than 10% of the population.

•  Fact: North Americans, Europeans and Japanese make up 11% of the population. However this 11% owns 90% of the wealth in the world and  consumes more than half of its products.

•  With a village of 1,000 people that represents the world’s population then:
  • 206 would be Chinese
  • 167 would be Indian
  • 79 would be from Central and South America
  • 50 would be from the former Soviet Union
  • 51 would be North American
  • 45 would be Western European
  • 33 would be Indonesian
  • 21 would be from Japan
  • 22 would be from Bangladesh
  • 21 would be from Nigeria
  • 24 would be from Pakistan
  • 118 would be from other African and other Asian countries

•  Religiously, this global village would have the following
  • Christian 330
  • Non-Christian 670

I know this is old data- but I think it is often  forgotten. These facts are always intriguing to me.

So consider this post as a  ”refresh” of our “perception screen”.  Like our computer, sometimes we find ourselves totally “hanging” to what we assume. Hit that refresh button when you find yourself doing that.  It appears  we are  not the center of the universe after all- that only occurs on our birthdays and only sometimes! . I jest  but I think the point is made. Right?

As you reflect on this data,  how would you summarize or assess a person’s perception of the west towards the  east and vice versa- by just using this data?

It is natural to use one’s experience, standards and values  as a point of reference for anything we do or say and how we treat others. There are times we may wonder  and ask the question “Why another party cannot see, what we see?” I am British and Canadian: I have often heard similar sentiments from North Americans and/or Europeans. That is from my own cultural background.  My advice, is to step back and look at the context and the values of the other individual  and then adapt your behavior and  messaging  accordingly, so that you message is heard, or better still, internalized.  This also speaks to my previous posts on dress and global leadership standards.

When I am with a new team – especially a diverse, cross-functional team,  I spend time  up-front trying to get to  know them- nothing new here too,  however this is often forgotten. I often hear the term “Let’s bond!” This is a good start and that  is what it is, it is a start. Bonding is not a task – it is a journey. So remember the above facts, plan your bondING journey and  approach to build those relationships.

By the way, I live in a small village outside Toronto Canada. Population 600. LOL!

What size is your village? What has been your cross- cultural leadership experience?

 Cheers!

Shirley

The wonderful photo is by aussiegall

I thought I would touch on the topic of exposure and global leadership. Hence my question and title of this post: How much skin is enough?

I think it is fair to say that in the western world, the level of acceptable exposure for women has drastically changed over the years. The above cartoon says it all (which I found on a blog discussing women’s image and health). The level of exposure not only differ with generations but culture and religion. It is also very tightly tied to personal space. So what does that mean when you are in a leadership role? Globally?  I think when in doubt, lean on the conservative side.  Here are some pointers:

Certain parts of the body can be off-limits in both a personal or professional setting.

Women should be careful about exposing their arms, legs or even faces in many Muslim countries.

Wearing shorts or other types of casual clothing is not acceptable in many cultures.

The most sensitive situations apply to women in orthodox settings in the Middle East, where proper attire for women does not include shorts or short skirts.

Showing the bottom of a shoe when crossing the legs  is also considered an act of disrespect  in many Muslim countries as well as in Thailand.

Sometimes, a well-meaning gesture can be misinterpreted for example, touching the head of a young child in most Asian countries is not acceptable behavior.

If you are not aware of the culture of a country, or  the culture of the organization, your wardrobe should air on the conservative side when meeting for the first time.

Colors are also  important –  in many settings you can convey a positive or negative impression because of the color you are wearing. For example , in Asia, red or white typically are worn to funerals. Purple is considered unlucky in Italy.

Now, with increased  business globalization some blunders may be forgiven as we open up our doors  and have a deeper understanding of other cultures. However the  message here is, do your homework. Do not assume.  Again, a quick check of culture can go a long way to making the first step to building that relationship.

What has been your experience?  Do share. I would love to hear from you.

Now go dress for success!

Related articles

• Business Leader Introductions, Do You Kiss, Bow Or Shake Hands? (williampearl.wordpress.com)
• Does Global Business Leadership Standards Exist? (williampearl.wordpress.com)
• Globalization AND Culture (socyberty.com)

• Leading to meet one’s destiny.
• Empowering a Can Do attitude with those who cross your path.
• Accountability of what you do, say and impart.
• Directing a shared vision and future.
• Empathy is never lost.
• Role Model the model to be.
• Strength to bear the load.
• Heart is always at the core.
• Inspiring  when there is hope and in the face of hopelessness.
• Presence for all to see and feel.

And there you have it: my background. In other cultures, this is interpreted as quite the opposite. So this post is going to be all about those all important introductions as a business leader. The reality is, we assess a person within the first few minutes of meeting someone. This can determine whether to hire, partner or date for that matter! We pack a lot of meaning in those oh so precious seconds of meeting a person.

First Names

As a leader, relationship building up, down and outside the organization is a key component of the role. Although the  familiarity and the use of first names may be popular in Canada and the U.S.,  this is not necessarily the case in many other countries. In Asia and in some European countries, addressing a person by their first name can be considered as disrespect even an insult until a level of familiarity is actually established. With the economy the way it is today and the fusion of our global markets, this may not be so black and white- nonetheless it should be considered when addressing a person for the first time. Now etiquette on social media is still being determined- for the most part. In my experience, familiarity is expedited and usually the username is the indicator as to how you should address a person. But still, one should keep this mind.

Surnames

Many Asian countries list surnames first and given names last. Make a point to confirm surnames in advance whenever possible when meeting someone for the first time-specially on a business trip.

Titles

Failing to address someone by his or her proper title-such as a doctor, professor, prince or chief executive officer-can start your meeting totally on the wrong footing. Yep titles still matters. If you have only spoken to the person on the phone and could not find a photo of the person -when meeting them for the first time in a party, you should not assume who’s who. I have had so many first meetings with other business leaders where it was assumed that I was not the leader and my host would welcome my travelling partner with little reference to myself. Do not make that mistake; if you are not sure- ask. If you are not sure of the proper pronunciation of their name – ask. I have been thanked so many times just for asking for the proper pronunciation and then  forgiven with my attempt- however respected because I showed I cared.

Business Cards

To this day,  when I receive a business card regardless of where I am, I spend a few moments looking at it and if I am at a table, proudly display it beside my “stuff”. It is common in North America for professionals to casually hand out cards with one hand. But in many other countries, it is a bit of a ritual where it is customary to handle the business card with both hands and taking it further by accompanying the act with a slight bow. The business card has huge significance in some cultures and so the associated attention is a sign of respect. The reason I put the card on the table, is that in some cultures it is frowned upon if you put the card away during the meeting.

Please do not put your guest’s business card  in your back pocket near your rear-end. Your meeting will  be over before it even got started- perhaps not physically but mentally. Now in some cultures writing on the business is considered disrespectful- so know your audience.

Personal Space

You really need to consider personal space and touching. Here in Canada, we touch people a lot!  Touching, hugging, hand shakes and/or kissing cheeks etc  in some countries, especially in the Middle East, is not acceptable. Furthermore in many cultures or religions, it is improper for men and women to touch members of the opposite sex, other than their spouses or close family members.  I usually wait and take the other person’s lead. So do keep that in mind. Certainly, as a female leader, meeting another leader in some of these cultures, you really do have to do your homework and not be too sensitive about your own norms especially if you want to ensure a successful discussion.

All this with in the first few minutes! Do you kiss, bow or shake hands?!

This indeed can set the stage for your  meeting going forward. Do your homework.

What about you? What other introductory rituals have you experienced ? Or aware of?

Cheers!

Shirley

Photo by Funchye (Italy)

Related articles

• Does Global Business Leadership Standards Exist? (williampearl.wordpress.com)
• A business card is not just a social object; it’s a form of schwag (gapingvoid.com)

Yesterday, I was part of a discussion on standards as it relates to doing business. I find Global Business Leadership totally fascinating.

Now having lived in England, Canada and the United States, and worked with Sweden,  Australia, Brazil, Argentina, Columbia, Switzerland & India, I found myself saying:

“What country? What culture? What industry? What? What? What?

I needed more criteria to really embrace the discussion. I usually enjoy these discussions but for some reason, on this occasion, I found myself lost in my thoughts and reflections.

When I first started my professional journey, I was sure I was clear about my sandbox and the standards I needed to abide by. However, as I crossed many borders and  gained more knowledge, I realized that so many standards are relative. In fact the more knowledge I gained, the more I realized I had so much more to learn.

Secondly, I have scars as it relates to attaining one global standard for a global organization with over 10 countries sitting around the table! I kid you not. I can also name a few of my colleagues who can compete with me showing you those scars! LOL! They were painful discussions.

As a result, I have decided to write a series of posts on:

“Cross-Cultural Business Global Leadership”.

Is there such a term? Don’t know. What I do know, is that I really would like to have this discussion with you. Especially at this time – when social media is breaking down the walls to increase transparency and yet our interpretation of our messages may be all over the place because of the very diverse cultures that we bring to the “screen”.

This post is a general introduction about conducting business on a global level.

Defining Global

Now the  first order of clarification from my perspective is the word “global”. I have been in so many “global organizations” where they use the term global and what it really means is wherever the head office resides ( be it UK, US, Canada, Japan- wherever), the way the business will be conducted in other countries, will be the same as the head office country. So their interpretation of global is that we are doing business IN that country -not WITH that county. Wrong! Gosh, how many blunders have there been because global  business leaders think they can just put a template of their home operation into a different country and expect it to work? Countless times! It just does not work like that. Perhaps if the mindset was: We are doing business WITH the country ie WITH the people in that country- the risk of blunders would be minimized. Global should mean doing business within a country that would be seamless as possible to employees and  this new customer base. It is being a master international,  business chameleon. This is my definition.

Business Thinking

When conducting business, individuals often focus on how they think, not how the other party views the situation. This built-in bias is generally detrimental and can be toxic for international transactions and businesses. It can set you up for failure as it can contribute to the possibility of making cultural blunders that have negative impact on business relationships.

Cultural Differences

Those who fail to recognize cultural differences and concerns will frequently destroy what could have been a successful transaction. More importantly, the global leader, consultant or investor who has made the offence, typically is not even aware of the blunder that spoiled relations in the first place and caused the loss a potentially good opportunity. Sadly these leaders will also have a long learning curve, as many cultures will not share their blunder. Why? Out of respect.

I have witness this so many times. There have been times when I have had to take the global leader aside to share his or her misstep and why staff or other leaders are not motivated by their message delivery (or their presence). Global leaders should not interpret nodding heads as agreement or commitment. In fact it can mean quite the opposite.

Relationship Building

In many cultures, relationship building is imperative, let alone critical, before any discussion of business can occur. We in North America are very business task/transaction focused. Others are not ,or I perhaps I should say -do not always put that discussion as the  first item on the agenda to developing a business partnership.

My first trip to Argentina was such an education. Wonderful experience. I had to totally rethink my style. Luckily, I did a lot of reading before meeting my counterparts. The first two days in Argentina was all about relationship building and getting know each other. Beautiful country! Here in Canada,  the US and my country of birth, England- we get down to business almost immediately. Usually wanting to see numbers as soon as possible and then documenting everything in sight,  what’s been said with a whole bunch of assumptions. Sometimes we really need to take a pill and relax a little.

The Financials

A focus on only net financial benefits, such as a rate of return analysis, may be extremely short sighted especially when dealing with other cultures. Though a return on investment is crucial in most business circumstances, other issues such as family relationships or prestige may be of more importance, at least in the short term. This is especially true in most Asian countries.

Documentation

In the United States it is generally not an insult or unusual for a long legal document to outline a partnership or transaction. The quality of the partnership is related to the weight of that document- ok I jest; being a little naughty but just a little .  However, in many Eastern European and Asian countries, it could be considered an insult to have an extremely detailed document, as it  could imply that the person presenting it doesn’t trust them.

In the United States, Canada and England, for example, the contract is the document that ultimately defines the transaction. But elsewhere, it can be the starting point of the discussion. Now talk about the need to get aligned!

So What About Those Standards?

So I will finish this post, where I started. Standards are relative and quite frankly should be made to be flexible – which by definition is not a standard. Like the term “unconference”,  lets call it “unstandards”. What do you think?

Thank goodness, I had that discussion yesterday! I have been meaning to write about this for ages! It feels good to get it out. Ooopsie!

Cheers- your turn…

Shirley

Cartoon used with the permission of the Cartoonist; image by Pat McDonald

Related articles

• To Ensure Successful International Expansion, Join the Global Village (theinternationalexpert.com)
• A New Era for Global Leadership Development – HBR (bjconquest.com)

I wrote this presentation some time ago. As I review the content, I believe it still holds true today as it did then. Well then, I had 20 reasons!

When I headed Engineering, I remember one of my engineers sharing with me: “My initiative would be just fine, if I did not have people in it!”

I must admit – I chuckled. The reality is most projects and initiatives fail because of the soft-side of the project.

Here are my 30 Reasons Why Strategic Initiatives Fail:

The Strategy

1. Failing to define your ideal future vision in the beginning… that is shared.

2. Failing to clarify and simplify.

3. Developing only superficial vision, mission and values statements. Especially those that end up on a wall or in a folder somewhere. Not lived.

4. Forgetting that people support what they feel they have been apart of.

Success comes with involvement

5. Failing to make tough choices to future directions and obsolete tasks. It must have value and value as defined by the customer. Not new but true even more so today.

6. Neglecting to gauge yourself against the competition.

7. Conducting only long-range financial forecasting.

8. Poor information on social, competitive, economic, political, technical, industry and customer influences – this should be a continuous analysis not an event. Just plain aversion or openness to new ideas.

9. Using confusing terminology.

10. Using confusing language.

The Plan

11. Failing to integrate planning at all levels.

12. Conducting “business as usual” after strategically planning otherwise.

13. Commitment to the plan.

14. Communicating the plan.

15. Having a plan. Now there’s a concept

16. Recognizing that it is a “living plan”.

The Implementation

17. Lack of  focus.

18. Inconsistent decisions

19. Failing to design/ complete an effective (measured) implementation process.

20. No management of implementation and process of change.

21. Difficultly in keeping up momentum during the  implementation.

22. Burnout.

23. Low commitment to the final products of the strategic plan.

24. Failure to provide the needed resources (financial and personnel) to implement.

25. Differing directions/priorities among business/organizational units

26. Conflict and politics.

27. Lack of Sponsorship.

28. Lack of Leadership.

29. Lack of interpersonal skills among top management working as a “team”.

30. The actual implementation.

Many of the above are people-related and can been seen as symptoms of resistance. I would also like to state that these reasons are not just employee-related. It starts at the top. Model the model leaders.

I am intrigued if you have experienced any of the above or other reasons!

Stay the course and be successful.

Cheers

Shirley

Cartoon used with the permission of Cartoonist; Photo by  Funchye

Related articles

• Strategic Initiatives | Are You Ready to Implement? (leadingstrategicinitiatives.wordpress.com)
• The Top 4 Reasons Many Businesses Don’t Implement their Strategic Plan (prweb.com)

I recently posted the above cartoon on my Facebook page - The responses are very much aligned to my points below. Although this is displaying a very personal setting- a date. The same is true in a business setting. If you have arranged a face to face meeting with another professional, taking your phone out every two minutes will totally change the “mood”. It can be seen as a sign of disrespect and a sense that the person is not worthy of your attention. I found this wonderful infograph that highlights good reminders on cellphone etiquette by cellphones.org. They certainly can apply to mobile devices.

As it relates to a face to face meetings, do keep the following five tips front of mind.

Be courteous with your mobile device

1. Put your phone on vibrate.

2. Put your phone in your pocket. Do not leave it on the table.

3. If you really have to take a call, make it brief. Share you are busy, you will get back to them and hang up. Then apologize.

4. If you are on call and waiting for an emergency call, advise your partner of such at the beginning of your meeting or lunch.

5. Texting is just as bad as phoning when engaged in a face to face meeting. Don’t do it.

Can you add to the list? What has been your experience?

Have a great meeting!

Cartoon used with permission of Cartoonist; Photo by  Funchye.

Related articles

• Be aware of the etiquette standards regarding cellphone use in public. (deaconjohn1987.wordpress.com)
• How’s your “Teletiquette” in Virtual Meetings? (themarlincompany.com)

So, if you are innovating thinking about jumping ahead:

1. Take stock  (pull back) of where you have been
2. Identify where you want to go (aim). If you need to close one eye for that precision (operative word is precision), go for it!
3. Plan and create a buzz to build momentum. Yep, create a frenzy!
4. Then roll it out (release). Empower your people to do their thing! Empowerment instills confidence and an open environment to win. Unlike below, success will not be postponed!

So, go forward. Be successful.  Be one with the Catapult

Social sites are growing by the minute. You can find almost anything to tickle your fancy. I recently joined two that would stretch my social media muscle and fancy. Klout and Empire Avenue.  It is still early days  and for sure I will be writing a blog on both in the near future. Having a method for effectively measuring your level of influence and spread is without a doubt a gold nugget. The operative word is effective.

What has been your experience with such sites?