What is “culture”?

Culture surrounds us naturally, it is always there, whether we want it or not. If we live in the environment we grew up in, we hardly notice it—like fish swimming in water. Only when our environment changes, for example through moving to a different place or by meeting people from other cultures, do we perceive a change—things are not as “normal” as they were before. The challenge is to deal with these differences successfully.

Our culture defines our behaviour. For example it influences the following factors:

• How do you build trust in other people?
  On a personal level, or on a more factual level?
• How do you communicate?
  In a brief and direct, or indirect and diffuse manner?
• What role do you attribute to your superiors?
  Are they more of a mediator or an untouchable authority?
• How do you perceive rules and appointments?
  Are they binding commitments or rough guidelines?

Of course within a certain cultural group, not all individuals behave the same. Nevertheless, there are certain discernible tendencies and patterns of behaviour—views and values, which can lead to certain actions, and which we have absorbed since childhood. We have to make ourselves aware of these tendencies for successful intercultural cooperation. This does not mean that everyone has to conform to the same cultural values. It means that people should understand where the differences and similarities lie and why individuals act in certain ways. In this way we can find a common ground on the basis of which we can live and work together.

Open Cultures can show you the way to intercultural cooperation that suits your individual needs.