Managing Multinational Teams

The aim of this course is to provide participants with a basic understanding of intercultural mechanisms of collaboration. We will not so much explore cultural differences as examine their causes and learn about the mechanisms behind them, so that as a result each of the participants will stand to be more knowledgeable in leading international projects and building long-term successful intercultural relationships. The course takes the form of a workshop with video material, e-mails, and virtual communication. It is based on a case study of international team design.

This course offers a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical exercises focused on: 

• Understanding intercultural mechanisms: Exploring the underlying causes of cultural differences and their impact on collaboration.
• Effective communication: Learning best practices for managing virtual and face-to-face interactions in diverse teams.

Upon completing the course, participants will be able to:

• Navigate cultural dynamics:

Understand the concept of culture and its workings, including deeper cultural layers.

Anticipate potential friction points arising from cultural differences and respond effectively.

• Conduct successful meetings:

Build rapport during initial international meetings by recognizing key aspects of different cultures.

Manage multinational team meetings, both in-person and virtual, including time planning and leadership roles.

• Master E-mail communication:

Write tailored emails that respect cultural nuances and adhere to good practices in international communication.

• Handle difficult situations:

Address and resolve challenges that may arise in intercultural contexts through enhanced competence.

• Becoming more competent in managing international projects;
• Being more effective in building long-term successful intercultural relationships;
• Being able to anticipate the most likely areas of difficulty / friction resulting from cultural differences in projects - and respond to them effectively.

• What is culture, and how does culture work? Why should we be interested in culture, and how can we reach deeper layers of culture;
• The first international meeting - how to build successful contact from the very first impressions, which aspects are important in the first contact for people of different cultures;
• Managing multinational team meetings -. face to face and virtual meetings. What can we always expect? Time planning, the role of leader, and good practices in conducting international meetings;
• E-mail communication in international contact. How to write tailored emails for individual cultures. Good practices in writing international e-mails;
• Difficult situations in international contact / intercultural competence.

Total: theory ~65%, practice ~ 35%