Leadership Without Borders: Lessons from a Global Journey

Leadership is universal, or so they say. In reality, it’s anything but. Having lived in five countries and worked across the globe, I’ve learned that effective leadership isn’t about imposing a single style on every situation. It’s about adapting, connecting, and occasionally laughing at the unexpected cultural surprises that come your way.

Communication Styles: From Direct to Delicate

Take communication styles, for example. In the Netherlands, feedback is as direct as their famous bike lanes. There’s no beating around the bush, if there’s an issue, they’ll tell you straight to your face. It’s efficient, refreshing, and sometimes a bit startling.

Contrast that with the United Kingdom, where constructive criticism is wrapped in layers of politeness. There, even a disagreement might start with, “I’m sorry, but I think we might consider another approach.” The British mastery of understatement could turn a blunt “no” into a delicate “perhaps not.”

Rules, Rest, and Relationships

Cultural quirks extend beyond the boardroom. During my time in Germany, I was politely informed by a neighbor that mowing the lawn on a Sunday is "verboten", it’s the day of rest, after all. Rules and precision are deeply ingrained in the German mindset, from quiet Sundays to meticulous business processes. Everything is planned, calculated, and executed with precision, ensuring no detail is overlooked.

In Latin America, the approach is different. Leadership feels like a warm embrace, literally. Personal connections are everything, and greetings often include a handshake, a hug, or even a kiss on the cheek, depending on where you are. Time, however, is a more fluid concept. On my first visit to a new organization, the local leader, Eduardo, declared, “Ole is here, so we start on time!” To my delight, everyone was punctual, at least for the first day. Conversations here can feel circular, with the same points repeated several times, but this isn’t inefficiency, it’s about building understanding and relationships.

Consensus and Coffee

In Scandinavia, equality and consensus reign supreme. Meetings can go long as everyone’s voice is heard and consensus is sought. Large pots of coffee are always on hand, a necessity for these marathon discussions. The focus isn’t just on the what, but on the how, ensuring the journey to a decision is just as inclusive as the outcome itself.

Meanwhile, in Asia, subtlety and silence take center stage. Words carry weight, and less is often more. I’ve learned to embrace the art of the pause in meetings, allowing silence to convey thoughtfulness and respect.

The U.S.: Bold Ideas and Big Coffee Cups

Now living in the United States, I lead a global organization of almost 15,000 colleagues spanning more than 40 countries. Here, decisiveness and boldness are prized. Meetings move quickly, fueled by big ideas and even bigger coffee cups. It’s a sharp contrast to the deliberative approaches I’ve encountered elsewhere, but it’s equally effective in driving innovation and action.

Unexpected Cultural Surprises

Every country offers its own lessons, challenges, and, yes, surprises. Like the time I was sitting in a Dutch garden with friends, enjoying a quiet summer afternoon, when two ladies unexpectedly appeared, asking to use the bathroom. Or the time in Russia when a junior colleague, who had never touched alcohol, faced a business lunch where the vodka was flowing freely. The host declared, “No vodka, no business,” and, well, my colleague suddenly discovered a new skill.

These moments of cultural collision aren’t just anecdotes, they’re reminders of the importance of adaptability.

Conclusion: Leadership Without Borders

What has this global journey taught me?

1. Adaptability is Key: There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to leadership. Success lies in understanding and respecting the cultures you work in.
2. Listen and Observe: Sometimes, the greatest insights come from observing how others communicate, connect, and collaborate.
3. Celebrate Diversity: Embrace the quirks and surprises of each culture, they make global teams richer and more dynamic.

Leadership without borders isn’t just a strategy, it’s an adventure. One filled with learning, laughter, and the occasional cultural surprise that makes it all worthwhile.

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