From first impressions to lasting partnerships, successful business in today’s global world is all about effective intercultural engagement. Equipping your staff with the right skills can make the crucial difference.
How well staff can interact with colleagues from different cultural backgrounds, adapt to new multicultural working environments, and build rapport with international clients and partners, can be fundamental to how a company performs in local and international markets. Research shows that an increasing number of businesses globally consider intercultural skills to be a vital ingredient for success (see below).
Yet working in diverse contexts does not automatically make staff interculturally fluent. Operating effectively in these environments is a complex skill, requiring self-reflection, knowledge and understanding. Companies that support their staff to actively develop these skills within their professional development offer can benefit from higher performing culturally diverse teams, stronger internal and external relationships, and increased success in international markets.
The British Council’s Intercultural Fluency training can equip your staff with the skills, confidence and awareness to perform at their best in any intercultural situation. The courses enable participants to develop a deeper understanding of cultural similarities and differences, helping them adapt their approach in different environments and avoid potential misunderstandings and conflicts in the workplace.