Cultural Diversity: ADP gets Experts to Share on Best Approach

Cultural Diversity in Europe

Cultural diversity is an asset that international companies share, and their ability to manage it gives them a real competitive edge. Differences are not something to be overcome; they should be put to good use. In keeping an open mind, curiosity and the ability to listen are essential. This fosters the emergence of a new "international culture", blending boldness and modesty.

"Culture should be seen as a knowledge management resource.”Nigel Holden, former Professor of cross-cultural management at the Lancashire Business School, disregards the traditional approach to cross-cultural management, too preoccupied with cultural differences.Instead, he advocates the case for cross-cultural expertise as a knowledge management resource that facilitates collaborative learning within organizations.That approach requires three intellectual steps: First, realize that cross-cultural management is about the management of cross-cultural relationships and about creating synergies from them. Second, these relationships are part of the fabric of the global knowledge economy. Third, we have to be prepared to break away from the values-based notions of culture associated with nation states.

"Be comfortable with not understanding it all!"Catherine Mabileau, who speaks five languages, explains that, regardless of language skills, the codes used by our colleagues will always include shadow areas and that you need to be comfortable with not understanding it all.Instead she recommends relying on your curiosity, open-mindedness and listening ability…

"Invest in diversity as a competitive advantage"Medhi Majidi, Director of the Master of Arts in Cross-Cultural and Sustainable Business Management of the American University of Paris, stresses the importance of cultural diversity as a factor that stimulates innovation. As all multinationals are multicultural in essence, the way they manage diversity is a real distinguishing feature. Indeed, as today virtually all multinationals have access to the same resources, the essential difference will lie in their capacity to orchestrate everything to ensure all the players are in tune.

About ADP Europe

With 60 years of unrivalled expertise, ADP is the largest outsourcer of payroll and human resources administration services, offering solutions adapted to each company whatever its size, sector of activity or presence, local or international. For more information, visit the company’s website at www.europe.adp.com.

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