For many organisations today, being international is simply a vital part of being an effective business. How do you develop profitable operations across national boundaries, different time zones and cultures, whilst successfully persuading diverse people to work together effectively?

Culture, often derided as that ‘soft, mushy stuff’, is real - and is, after all, about people. It has everything to do with bottom-line benefits. The ability to communicate effectively with people from other cultures, and to achieve what you want from meetings and negotiations are key skills in a global economy.

A large number of executives have to manage individuals and teams in cross-functional, multi-cultural, and multi-site environments, against a backdrop of ceaseless disruption and change.

Attitudes to work and corporate life differ greatly across cultures. Multinationals operating in Europe often find that it can be difficult to reconcile the European ‘consensus’ culture with the value-driven Anglo Saxon one. Successful cross-border partnerships involve building bridges of understanding and respect. The more complex your operations, the more you need everyone working together.

Vivianne Näslund can assist your organisation with: