Turning Conflicts into Opportunities

“They Just Think Differently”: Intercultural Conflict Management

Misunderstandings can affect workplace dynamics and create tension. In international collaboration, they often stem from language barriers or differing cultural perspectives.

The key is understanding how conflicts arise and recognizing the values and assumptions behind them. Are they intercultural, structural, or simply human? In this seminar, we explore personal backgrounds, experiences, and communication patterns considered “normal” in different cultural contexts—helping participants make sense of differences and navigate them effectively.

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 From Misunderstandings to Mutual Respect 

Understanding and Navigating Intercultural Challenges

Participants discover a range of conflict resolution strategies and learn how to apply them in different situations. Key takeaways include:

  • Separate the people from the problem – focus on issues while preserving relationships.

  • Focus on interests, not positions – understand underlying needs.
  • Invent options for mutual gain – brainstorm creative solutions.
  • Use objective criteria – establish fair standards for decision-making.

Who benefits:

  • International project teams with diverse cultural backgrounds

  • Leaders and employees from multiple cultural contexts
  • Organizations undergoing transformation or change

The goal: fostering collaboration based on respect, understanding, and clarity—even when cultural differences are significant.

 Dialogue instead of tension 

Case Study – Intercultural Conflict Management

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The German Manager and the Vietnamese Employee
The manager of a construction company in Hanoi has serious doubts about the qualifications of his Vietnamese staff. Several times he asks a senior employee to develop a plan for the new canteen—and each time provides ample time to complete it.

Instead of working independently and purposefully, the employee overwhelms him with detailed questions, seeking approval for every idea and step.

The German manager wonders: Is the employee disorganized, overwhelmed, or simply too comfortable relying on others to do the work?

Reflection:

  • How would you approach a situation like this? 

  • Can you relate it to experiences in your own work environment?
  • How is delegation typically understood and practiced in your organization?
  • What small changes in communication could make a significant difference?

In the seminar, you will receive practical explanations and concrete strategies for handling such situations effectively.