Cultural Synergy - Using our differences as a resource

This workshop is in collaboration with The HUM, sign-up here

Many of us have lots of experience working with colleagues or partners who have different priorities or ways of working than ourselves. We recognize the inherent friction and blind spots that emerge within collaborative teams. The focus is on creating language and awareness around these differences and sharing how we can build on cultural differences to enrich our collective work.

Cultural differences are linked to our passport country, and upbringing but also our large group affiliations like gender and generation and our experiences from different subgroups which represent our interests e.g. our profession, education, or life philosophies. As we are ambitious about evolving our ways of collaborating, it becomes imperative to harness the different work styles present within ourselves and our colleagues.

During the 2-week workshop, we will explore ways in which a team can create a shared culture together while honoring individual backgrounds and experiences. We will discuss what challenges the mix of work preferences brings to teamwork and what each of us can do to support or lead collaborative synergies in that mix. There will be time for sharing experiences and reflections, and each session will include harvesting ideas as a group.

• Understanding cultural differences linked to upbringing and subgroup affiliations
• Building awareness and language around cultural differences
• Exploring ways to create a shared team culture while honouring individual backgrounds and experiences
• Discussing challenges arising from mix of work preferences in teamwork
• Harvesting ideas as a group to enhance collaboration

Our workshop will dive into these areas:

Session #1: Sync as a Team

Collaboratively create agreements integrating diverse team dynamics. Discuss questions: How can we foster a shared third culture? What stereotypes exist about others' styles or cultures? How do we perceive colleagues with opposing preferences?

Session #2: Culture Mapping

We'll examine how cultural dimensions influence our approach to solo and collaborative tasks. Participants will engage in Culture Mapping, reflecting on their position on key cultural dimensions. How do you maintain authenticity while embracing diverse perspectives?

Session #3: Authentic Collaboration

Share experiences working with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds. Discuss challenges in aligning preferences and balancing personal authenticity with embracing others' perspectives. Harvest inclusive techniques inviting colleagues' autonomy and agency.

Session #4: Peer Coaching

Extend workshop discussions to address individual challenges. Participants will coach each other in trios, identifying techniques for navigating cultural differences. Conclude with a compiled list of strategies for a harmonious team environment.