4 Tips for Success in the Global Workplace

As technology makes our world a smaller place many businesses big and small are engaging in commerce across international borders. The definition of workplace has now expanded to include not just new cities or regions but the whole world, we are indeed witnessing life in the global workplace.

Conducting business on an international level isn’t always easy  as social norms, greetings and introductions and even time restraints differ across cultures. Here are our tips for success in the global workplace.

1. Have an open mind
Being open minded makes the transition from national to international easier as you will be more willing to learn about new countries, their customs, and the way they do business. Things may not always go as planned and tasks that used to be simple before may become more complicated and tedious. Obstacles be they cultural, financial or logistical will arise and you need to be able to think outside the box and get creative.

2. Welcome and embrace change
Making changes to the way you do business, approach projects, and even shake hands is inevitable when working in a global workplace. Change is never easy but being ready for the change and approaching it with a positive attitude certainly makes the transition run smoother. Don’t shy away or be afraid of changing the way you do business, different markets demand different approaches. Chances are you will have a completely different business model or approach for each new market you enter. Think of each new culture, country, or market as a creative outlet, an opportunity to do your job in the different way. The result or product is the same but the method is different.

3. Do your prep work
Preparation and research are essential when working on a global level. You need to be aware of the cultural and social norms of the countries you are doing business in.  There are many sources online that allow you do conduct a cultural comparison between countries. It’s a good idea to compare the country you live in with the countries you wish to enter or are looking to do business with.  The World Factbook is an online tool that provides comprehensive and detailed information about countries, however it focuses more on general information rather than cultural comparisons. To compare cultural differences, we recommend using the The Hofstede Center website as it allows you to compare and contrast cultures using 5 detailed dimensions.  In addition to cultural research you should attempt to learn a few basic words in the native language such as hello, thank you, and please.

4. Seek out local mentors
Locals are the best guides when it comes to learning about a new culture and market.  Seeking out a local professional who can help you learn about the business culture in your prospective market is a good idea, as you will be able to get a first hand account of what corporate life is like.  You can reach out to professionals in your field or similar fields through organizations advocating for trade between your home country and your perspective market. LinkedIn is also a good way of researching professionals in your field, however since these would be cold connections asking for mentorship is not recommended. You can also ask for guidance and information about perspective markets from their local embassies in your home base. Most embassies have trade commissioners that provide information on conducting business in their country.

Copyright © 2013 by Professional Edge Consulting

Bringing Civility to the Friendly Skies : 15 Airplane Etiquette Tips

Since the invention of the “flying machine” in the early 20^th century air travel has advanced considerably with new models from Boeing and Airbus gracing the skies.

Flying used to be regarded as a prestigious and glamorous activity with in fight lounges, card tables, and sleeping births even in economy class. Today much of the glamour and hype has been taken out of flying and it is regarded merely as a  rapid means of transportation to get from point A to point B, this is especially true for business travelers. Although the glamor and prestige may be gone we still believe that civility must be preserved in the friendly skies. Here’s our look at 15 airplane etiquette tips

1. Stay out of the aisle
When walking to your seat carry your cabin baggage in front of you and low to the ground so as not to obstruct other passengers, and avoid chatting in the aisles.
 

 2. Keep your seat upright for meals
Reclining seats are great but don’t leave your seat on full recline mode for the entire flight. Reclining your seat takes away from the leg room and dining tray space of the passenger behind you so be considerate and straighten your seat back for meals. Wait for the passenger behind you to finish his/her meal before reclining again.

3. Stuck in the middle with two armrests
No one likes to be stuck in the middle; you can’t look out the window and you can’t exit your seat freely. As a consolation the middle passenger gets both arm rests.

4. Get over body odour
Proper hygiene is essential when flying as passenger are packed in to an enclosed space with recycled air for extended periods of time. Using deodorant and showering at airports or lounges (if you can )is highly recommended to avoid offensive and embarrassing body odour. Avoid using strong perfumes and colognes and opt for a lightly scented body spray or unscented products.

5. Don’t hog the overhead compartment
Storage space on airplanes is limited so use the overhead compartment above your seat row. Do not spread your luggage out among multiple compartments unless advised by a flight attendant.

6. Bring motion sickness medication
Motion sickness consists of various symptoms such as dizziness, nausea, vomiting, or sweating. Sitting next to an airsick person on a flight is not pleasant so be considerate and take precautions/medications to prevent motion sickness ahead of time.

 7. Know your limit, drink within it
Alcohol is often free on long haul flights so it may be tempting to over indulge. Dealing with drunk passengers is unpleasant for the flight crew or fellow travelers so stay sober in the air. Obnoxious or foul behavior could also result in heavy penalties and offloading so it’s best to stick to just 2 drinks on long haul flights and avoid hard liquor.

 8. Mind your children
Noisy kids are rated as one of the most annoying in flight pet peeves. If you are traveling with children monitor their behavior to ensure they are quiet and not disturbing other passengers. If you are a parent your children are your responsibility even in the air!

9. Cut the chit chat
Do not attempt to start up a conversation with the passenger next to you. A little bit of small talk and exchange of pleasantries is alright but do not tell them your life story.

10. No litter or loitering in the loo
Airplane toilets are small, full of germs, and often cater to many rows of passengers. Be considerate of others when using the toilet; clean up after yourself and don’t take all day.

11.  Use a gentle touch
Many aircraft come equipped with built in entertainment systems containing touch screens installed in the seat in front of you. Exercise caution when using the touch screen  as you don’t want to keep poking the passenger in front of you every time you change TV channels.

12. Keep the window blinds closed when cabin lights are dimmed for designated “sleep time”
During long haul or red eye flights  cabin lights are dimmed to allow passengers to rest; this is designated “sleep time” Keeping your window blind shut during this time is recommended as you may be flying in to a sunrise.  Waking up to a bright sunrise after a red eye flight is not something most people look forward to so we advise keeping the blind closed until the cabin lights are brightened again for breakfast service.

13. Earplugs please!!  Control your snoring
Snoring is a common problem encountered on airplanes. If you are a snorer consider using a nasal strip such as breathe right to improve or alleviate your condition.  Being kept awake by a snoring passenger is extremely annoying for fellow travelers; by snoring loudly you are indicating to them that you have the right to sleep but they don’t!

14. Don’t ask other passengers to watch your belongings
You may think it’s common to ask someone to watch your purse or bag while you use the washroom but this practice can be dangerous. You risk being robbed or framed.  Your fellow passengers are not obligated to look after your things. If you bring it on the plane it’s your responsibility so do not ask others to watch your luggage.

15. Immigration cards should be filled out alone
Immigration and landing cards contain important personal information never ask another passenger to help you fill out your card. If you have questions regarding the immigration card or how to fill it out ask a member of the cabin crew. Similarly if someone asks you to help them with their card simply direct them to a crew member who will be better equipped to answer their questions. You cannot be liable for others or their information and vice versa.

Copyright © 2013 by Professional Edge Consulting

Decoding the Dress Code

What is a Dress Code? It is a standard or a norm that acts as a guide to let us know what is appropriate to wear to a certain place or event. Whether it be a business event or a social event, it is important to give a good first impression.  When attending any event, it is courteous to adhere to the dress code. An event can be informal or formal and within these two definitions are different dress codes. 

An informal event can have a Lounge, Smart-casual or Casual dress code while a formal event can have a more specific White-Tie or Black-Tie dress code.

 Let’s take a look at the different dress codes that pertain to different events.

Informal Event:

 An informal event simply means that it is not formal. It means it’s definitely not a Black-Tie event. Although informal, the event would generally require a business suit. An informal dress code is typically a suit and tie for men and a suit dress for women.

An informal dress code can also be a Smart-Casual dress code. A Smart-Casual dress code is a dress shirt and dress pants but no tie for men and a sun-dress, dress, pant suit or skirt suit for women.

An informal dress code also includes a Casual dress code. A Casual dress code can mean a polo shirt and pants for men and dress or pants with shirt for women.

Formal Event:

A formal event would require a formal dress code. A formal dress code can mean a White-Tie or Black-Tie dress code.

A White-Tie dress code is the most formal dress code.  A White-Tie dress code comes in to affect after 6.00 p.m. and is usually acceptable at state dinners or evening balls. A White-Tie dress code for men is an evening dress coat, white bow-tie, white waistcoat and a starched collar shirt.

A White-Tie dress code for women is a ball gown.

The less formal dress code for a formal event is the Black-Tie dress code. The Black-Tie dress code is for an evening event mainly after 6 p.m.

The Black-Tie dress code for men is a black suit, a white dress shirt, a black bow-tie, a cummerbund, and black dress shoes. 

 

A Black-Tie dress code for women can vary but consists of a dress, either ankle or mid-calf length, gloves, stole and evening shoes.

Being aware of what traditional dress codes mean is important, not only to create a good impression at an event but also show respect to the host or hostess.

Copyright © 2013 by Professional Edge Consulting