The polite Englishman, living in the Netherlands, wanting to end his written correspondence as the Dutch do by writing “met vriendelijke groeten” (which means “with friendly greetings”) unwittingly added one letter, ending his written correspondence “met vriendelijke groenten” which translates as “with friendly vegetables”. Luckily one of the recipients of this greeting alerted the Englishman to his mistake.
Even if you have the best intentions to understand another culture, things can still get as mixed up as a plate of mixed vegetables. Welcome to this healthy and colorful book on intercultural communication.
Intercultural sensitivity (part 1)
Even if you have the best intentions to understand another culture, things can still get as mixed up as a plate of mixed vegetables.
Continue reading
Intercultural communication (part 2)
In today’s world, the internet, television and travel have helped carry non-verbal signs (and words) across national boundaries, so that people are tempted to think that gestures and expressions mean the same everywhere. Not so...
Continue reading
Building commitment: leadership and culture (part 3)
Continue reading
Managing uncertainty: vegetables have feelings too (part 4)
Continue reading
Into the melting pot (part 5)
Continue readingJim Morris is a senior facilitator and project manager for Schouten Global. He lives and breathes culture: English by nationality, he lives in the Netherlands and works all over the world facilitating professional learning and development. His latest book The Eight Great Beacons of Cultural Awareness (a practical guide that will strengthen your cultural awareness) is available as e-book here.
Newsletter
Sign up and be the first to receive interesting facts and tips about personal development, book suggestions and inspiring blogs.