Part 2 - Lessons Learned from a Brazilian SM/PO - IT sector cultural difference - Brazil x Sweden
Moving from the vibrant, group-oriented culture of Brazil to the reserved, individualistic society of Sweden was a cultural shock that fundamentally changed the way I approached teamwork, decision-making, and problem-solving. Previously in Part 1, I gave a brief introduction to this theme and in this article I'll go deeper into the impact of these cultural differences and provide insights on how to adapt, drawing from my personal experiences.
Cultural Differences
In Brazil, the collective spirit prevails. We Brazilians are known for being open and participatory in nature. Initiating team dynamics or problem-solving sessions often leads to enthusiastic participation (I miss a lot of that). However, punctuality can be an issue, as we spend time getting to know each other.
In Sweden, the culture is more reserved, with a focus on individualism and a clear boundary between work and personal life. The Swedes are punctual and direct in communication, which contrasts with the Brazilian culture.
One curiosity is that some Swedish consultancy companies aim to foster a friendly work environment and encourage co-workers to become friends, aligning with my cultural preferences I strongly recommend you follow Logikfabriken and Nevin these consultancy companies focus on servant leadership and their publications are fun and captivating.
Impact on Work and Mental Health
These differences can have significant consequences for work dynamics and mental health. In Brazil, creating a welcoming environment with a personal touch is typical, but it can lead to time management challenges. In Sweden, the emphasis is on the "why" behind actions, and clear communication is appreciated, though fostering open communication can be a challenge in a culture naturally inclined to reserve. This is what I learned living and working here.
It is valid to mention The Golden Circle by Simon Sinek, in his book he teaches:
"The Golden Circle provides compelling evidence of how much more we can achieve if we start everything we do by first asking a simple question: “Why?” The Golden Circle can be used as a guide to vastly improve every aspect of your business or organization—from leadership and hiring, to product development, sales, and marketing"
Examples of Initiatives
For instance, in Sweden, initiatives with a clear purpose have successfully bridged the cultural gap. Leaders who emphasize the 'why' behind actions gain respect. For example, a clear purpose for team-building activities can encourage participation even in a reserved culture like Sweden.
Conclusion
Navigating the cultural differences between Brazil and Sweden is a fascinating journey. It teaches us that understanding 'why' we do things is often more important than 'what' we do. By acknowledging and adapting to the nuances of each culture, we can foster better teamwork, decision-making, and ultimately, mental health, in diverse, global workplaces.
How have you navigated cross-cultural challenges in your career? Share your experiences and insights in the comments or connect with me on LinkedIn for further discussions.
In the next part, I will share some stories that happened to me in both countries.
For further exploration of cross-cultural adaptation and teamwork, you may find these resources valuable:
New Product Introduction Manager | Project Management | Innovation
1 年I really enjoyed learning more about the cultural perspective, very valuable tips!