"MY SECRET SUPERPOWER AT THE WORKPLACE: CONSCIOUS INCLUSION”

In the latest installment of the Women Automotive Network Leadership Interview series, we hosted a compelling LinkedIn Live interview featuring a dynamic discussion with Lavanya Wadgaonkar PhD, CCO Nissan Motor Corporation Japan and our host Andy Fellows, founder of Aquilae. The conversation delved into the nuances of cultural integration in professional settings, highlighting how varying decision-making styles, biases, and communication approaches shape workplace dynamics. Lavanya shared invaluable insights on embracing diversity, fostering trust, and leveraging individual strengths to drive organizational success. 

WATCH IT HERE

The Power of Slowing Down: Navigating Cultural Differences in Global Workplaces

In today’s globalized world, understanding and integrating into different workplace cultures can be challenging. Having moved from India to Japan, Lavanya experienced first-hand how cultural nuances affect professional environments. The key to successful integration is understanding that every culture has its unique rhythm and approach.

In India, quick decision-making is a prized skill due to the fast-paced nature of the environment. Contrarily, in Japan, the consensus culture values thorough discussion and team-based decision-making. For someone from a fast-paced culture, Japan might initially seem slow. However, this perceived slowness reflects a different, equally valuable approach to problem-solving and teamwork.

Key Skills for Integrating into Different Workplace Cultures

1. Removing Prejudices: When entering a new culture, it’s crucial to leave behind any preconceptions. When Lavanya moved to Southeast Asia, she realized that preconceived notions based on stereotypes could hinder true cultural assimilation. It’s essential to see individuals for who they are, not through the lens of generalized perceptions about their culture.
2. Self-awareness: While it’s important to be aware of others, it’s equally vital to understand your own biases and what influences your decisions. Expecting an entire culture to change for you is unrealistic; instead, focus on how you can adapt and integrate smoothly.
3. Observation and Listening: Effective communication isn’t just about speaking; it’s about knowing when to speak and when to listen. Being observant and taking cues from your environment can help you understand unspoken cultural norms and behaviors. This is akin to mind reading, where keen observation allows you to gauge others' emotions and reactions.

"When entering a new culture, it’s crucial to leave behind any preconceptions. Stereotyping is a natural human tendency to simplify the world, but it can be a barrier to genuine inclusion and understanding."

 

Preparing for Cultural Integration

To prepare for better understanding and seamless integration into a new culture, practice hyper-observation. This means being acutely aware of your surroundings, listening more than speaking initially, and being conscious of your own biases.

1. Building Trust: Demonstrating openness and a willingness to integrate helps build trust. People can easily tell if you’re genuine in your efforts to assimilate. Trust is the foundation of successful cultural integration, especially in professional settings.
2. Understanding the ‘Why’: When implementing organizational changes, explaining why changes are necessary is more important than dictating what needs to change. This approach fosters a collective understanding and motivation to evolve, rather than resistance.
3. Direct Communication: In a world dominated by digital communication, direct and personal interactions are more important than ever. Direct communication involves engaging with individuals on a personal level, understanding their motivations, frustrations, and inspirations.

"Trust is the foundation of successful cultural integration. Demonstrating openness and a willingness to integrate helps build trust, as people can easily tell if you’re genuine in your efforts to assimilate."

 

The Future of Cultural Integration

The future of cultural integration lies in fostering better human relations. In uncertain times, the one certainty we can rely on is the importance of interpersonal connections. By being more cognizant of others and focusing on building genuine relationships, we can create a more inclusive and understanding world.

"While it’s important to maintain your individuality, be conscious of potential cultural clashes and work towards minimizing them. Adapt where necessary to create a harmonious and inclusive workplace environment."

 

In conclusion, successful cultural integration requires a blend of self-awareness, observation, genuine communication, and an understanding of the underlying reasons for change. By focusing on these areas, individuals and organizations can navigate the complexities of global workplace cultures and build more cohesive and effective teams.

Don't worry if you missed the live interview, you can watch the recording on our YouTube Channel here