The Financial Times Guide to Inclusion and Diversity

CHAPTER 11

HOW TO RESPECT ­CULTURAL DIFFERENCES

In this chapter, we will discuss the importance of respect when working with different cultures. We will also look at how organisations grow globally, but may not invest enough in the cultural elements when people work together (and are thrown together).

Cultural differences and how they come together

Organisations’ biggest challenge can be their biggest opportunity – working across different cultures. It can lead to great team collaboration and inclusion, but also huge misunderstanding within the workplace. Sometimes cultural differences can underpin breakups and failures when organisations acquire or merge. Yet, give it the focus it deserves and it can be a huge opportunity in terms of business ...