How can you create an inclusive work culture when working abroad?

1 Know your context

Before you start working abroad, you need to do some research on the cultural, social, and legal norms of your host country. You should also familiarize yourself with the expectations and preferences of your colleagues and customers. This will help you avoid misunderstandings, conflicts, and offenses that could harm your relationships and reputation. You should also be aware of your own biases and assumptions, and be open to learning and adapting to different ways of working and communicating.

2 Communicate effectively

Communication is key to creating an inclusive work culture, especially when you work across languages, time zones, and platforms. You should use clear, simple, and respectful language, and avoid jargon, slang, and idioms that could be confusing or inappropriate. You should also check for understanding, feedback, and confirmation regularly, and use multiple channels to convey your messages. You should also listen actively and empathetically to your interlocutors, and show interest and appreciation for their perspectives and contributions.

3 Embrace diversity

Diversity is not only about differences in race, ethnicity, gender, age, or religion. It is also about differences in skills, experiences, opinions, values, and styles. You should embrace diversity as an asset and an opportunity to learn, grow, and innovate. You should also acknowledge and celebrate the achievements and strengths of your team members, and provide them with equal opportunities and support. You should also seek out and include diverse voices and perspectives in your decision-making and problem-solving processes.

4 Build trust

Trust is essential for creating an inclusive work culture, as it fosters collaboration, engagement, and loyalty. You can build trust by being honest, reliable, and accountable for your actions and words. You can also build trust by showing respect, empathy, and care for your team members, and by giving and receiving constructive feedback. You can also build trust by sharing your goals, challenges, and successes, and by inviting others to do the same. You can also build trust by creating a safe and supportive space where people can express themselves freely and authentically.

5 Learn and grow

Creating an inclusive work culture is not a one-time event, but a continuous process of learning and growing. You should always be curious and willing to learn from your experiences, mistakes, and feedback. You should also seek out opportunities to expand your knowledge and skills, and to challenge yourself and others. You should also share your insights and best practices with your team members, and encourage them to do the same. You should also celebrate your progress and achievements, and recognize the value of your work.

6 Have fun

Working abroad can be stressful and demanding, but it can also be fun and rewarding. You should try to balance your work and personal life, and to enjoy the benefits of living in a different country. You should also try to have fun with your team members, and to create a positive and friendly atmosphere. You can do this by organizing social events, games, or activities that allow you to relax, bond, and laugh together. You can also do this by expressing gratitude, appreciation, and recognition for your team members, and by showing your personality and humor.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?