How to Network Across Cultures
Some very telling examples. This is why people with backgrounds in anthropology are at an advantage. They already know how to do these things.
Learn from those around you: Watch carefully how others operate in networking situations, and learn what behaviors work and don’t work in that setting. Customize your own approach from what you observe to develop a style that feels authentic to you, and that is also effective in the new setting.
Master the new cultural logic: Learn the rationale for this new behavior from the perspective of the new culture. Learn, for example, why “small talk” is such an important part of networking in the United States. Understand from the American point of view why it’s actually appropriate to speak positively about yourself and your qualifications. Master the logic of the new culture and the behavior will feel much more comfortable to perform.
Or even how to network within your own culture. As an introvert and an isolated sibling in some ways (being way older than my siblings), I didn’t learn/ have no interest in a lot of the social behaviors of America until I got to college. I used to think I was socially awkward and then, while I still don’t necessarily care, I figured out how to be socially aware and do things like make small talk or maintain an acquaintance.
which is why it pisses me off that so many people at my school act like they’re irreparably socially awkward like shut up
(Source: newcommbiz)
