Cultural Differences

So you want to go global - What a tremendous opportunity to gain invaluable practical work experience, learn new foreign language skills, and experience amazing cultural immersion opportunities. Be prepared for some major differences in culture between your home country and the country you are going to be studying, working and living in.

“Culture gives people a sense of who they are, of belonging, of how they should behave, and of what they should be doing. Culture impacts behavior, morale, and productivity at work, and includes values and patterns that influence company attitudes and actions.”[1]

For North Americans and Europeans, immersing yourself in another “western” country is often considered easier than studying or interning in the Far East due to cultural differences. While many European and North Americans share commonalities these can lure you into “a false sense of familiarity… and the apparent similarities between countries mask significant cultural differences,” leaving you with a certain level of culture shock.[2]

Be aware of your own cultural identity relative to those around you and pay attention to all the different ways things happen. In Australia meetings are usually proceeded by small talk, in Ireland you should shake hands when you meet someone and again as you leave. In Italy you don't want to eat at your desk while at work and fashion is always important. Be prepared to learn about the country you are visiting and try to adapt your manners to ensure the greatest success. Learn the traditions, respect the culture, and immerse yourself fully in the experience.

For interns, take the time to learn international business etiquette and practices, and you will have a great learning experience, establish life-long friendships, develop an international network, immerse yourself in a foreign culture, and see some of the most famous places in the world. So get out there and learn, grow, and develop, you won’t regret it!

Working in France
Both business and government life are characterized by a strong hierarchical structure. Positions and the corresponding power are clearly defined. At meetings for instance, seating is in hierarchical order and important decisions are hardly ever made during the meeting itself. Often the chief decision maker - the "decider" - is even outside the meeting. Click Here for custom internships in France.

Working in Australia
The Australian work environment is similar to that of the USA and England. Egalitarianism is a cherished idea in Australia, based largely on a classless society in which everybody is treated equally. Consequently, success should not be overtly celebrated and modesty is an appreciated virtue. For a foreigner it is important to remember that you should never criticize Australia (true with most countries of course) or be too positive about your home country. However the other way round (being very positive about Australia and negative about your home country) will not gain you any points either. Respect the social and business culture, ask questions, and be yourself. The Aussies are a very welcoming bunch! Click Here for custom internships in Australia.

Working in Ireland
Be prepared! The Irish seem very easy going, but underneath the conversational surface they prove to be rather tough negotiators. The business culture is similar to that of the US and socially they are generally outgoing. Grab a pint of Guinness at a Dublin pub and you'll see what we mean! Click Here for custom internships in Ireland.

Working in Italy
Generally speaking, Italians have a different feeling towards time than most people in the world. Italians are rarely on time (unless it is really important!) and the slow enjoyment of life, food and socializing, unencumbered by the concept of time, reigns supreme. Punctuality in Milan means 20 minutes, in Rome half an hour and in the South of Italy 45 minutes too late. Of course to most Italians, there is no such thing as being late! Click Here for custom internships in Italy.

Working in the United Kingdom
The British have a fondness for debate and view meetings as gatherings to seek agreement rather than to issue instructions. They put a lot of poise, wit and diction in their way with words, but often do not realize that not everybody is a native speaker.[3] Click here for custom internships in London.

1. International Management: Cross-Cultural Dimensions by Richard Mead
2. The Cultural Differences between the European Union and North America and their Impact on Transatlantic Business by Lionel Laroche, Ph.D., P.Eng. www.itapintl.com/culturaldifferenceseuna.htm
3. www.labourmobility.com/individuals/culturalmanagementdifferences/