Thinking back to my move from India to Europe in December 2018, I can say there were some big cultural differences. One of the main differences was that my European colleagues didn't often have impromptu chats near their cubicles. They valued their privacy and focused on work more than I was used to in India, where we often had casual conversations. In Europe, it was common to schedule appointments to talk to colleagues, and the office was generally quieter. To do well in this new environment, I had to make an effort to adjust and learn these important strategies:
- Learn and respect the customs at your new job. In Europe, people often care about balancing work and life, talking openly, and working together. Pay attention to these values and adjust how you act. Seek advice from your friends or coworkers, and explore easy-to-understand books or podcasts on Spotify to help you learn more.
- If needed, work on enhancing your language abilities. While English is commonly used in European business environments, having some grasp of the local language can be beneficial, especially for everyday conversations. Explore the language courses available through your company's employee benefits, as many companies offer reimbursement for language courses.
- Establish a professional network both within your company and your industry. Participate in company gatherings, industry conferences, and connect with coworkers on platforms like LinkedIn. Many EU countries frequently host networking and tech talk events. Attending these can be highly beneficial for expanding your network and may even pave the way for your next career opportunity.
- Practice clear and concise communication. European companies value direct and well-structured communication. Be prepared for open and direct feedback from colleagues, even in front of others. Use this as an opportunity to demonstrate your ability to receive feedback gracefully, earn your colleagues' respect, and address necessary improvements to build trust. Additionally, be mindful of email etiquette and workplace communication standards.
- Avoid rushing to conclusions and remain receptive to new ideas and approaches. European companies often follow distinct work processes and methods. Be flexible and willing to embrace change when required.
- If you're accustomed to working long hours, like 10 hours a day, six days a week, it's time to embrace the European perspective on work-life balance. Avoid excessive work hours, and remember to utilize your vacation days to rejuvenate and explore your new surroundings.
Professional Development:
- Invest in your professional growth. Take advantage of training programs, workshops, and educational opportunities provided by your company. Lifelong learning is highly regarded in Europe.
Collaboration and Teamwork:
- Steer clear of conflicts with your colleagues and superiors. Seek alternative approaches to stay engaged. Remember, burning bridges may not serve your interests in the long run, as you might require support from your team or former managers at some point. Actively engage in team projects and collaborative initiatives, as European workplaces commonly emphasize teamwork and appreciate a variety of viewpoints. the importance of active listening and respecting the opinions of others.
- Leave behind the notion of the "Indian Standard Time work culture" and make punctuality a priority for meetings and appointments. In European workplaces, timeliness is greatly appreciated, and being punctual reflects respect for others.
- Refrain from using offensive language or making nationalistic comments, as European workplaces often consist of a diverse workforce with employees from various backgrounds. Embrace diversity and show respect for different cultures and viewpoints. Additionally, recognize the importance of being mindful of your body language and nonverbal communication, as European cultural norms can vary widely in this regard.
Legal Compliance and Insurance:
- Get acquainted with the labor laws and regulations in your host country. Make certain that you adhere to all legal employment requirements. Additionally, consider purchasing insurance, as legal services can be costly.
Feedback and Performance Reviews:
- Actively request feedback from both your manager and colleagues. Consider scheduling monthly review meetings to facilitate this process. Performance evaluations are a standard practice in European companies, and constructive feedback can support your personal growth and job security.
- Put in the effort to become a part of your local community and establish a social network beyond your workplace. Doing so can enhance your sense of belonging and alleviate any feelings of isolation. Engaging in extracurricular activities or pursuing hobbies is highly recommended, as it can serve as an excellent avenue for meeting new people and forming friendships.
- If you encounter challenges or have questions, don't hesitate to seek support from HR, colleagues, or expatriate support groups. Many companies offer resources to help expatriates adjust to their new environment.
Remember that adapting to a new work culture takes time. Be patient with yourself and continuously learn from your experiences. By embracing the culture and values of your European workplace while maintaining your unique skills and perspectives, you can thrive in your new professional environment.
- Be respectful of the local culture and customs.
- Learn the local language, even if it's just a few basic phrases.
- Build a professional network.
- Communicate clearly and concisely.
- Be adaptable and willing to learn new things.
- Value a healthy work-life balance.
- Invest in your professional development.
- Be a team player and collaborate effectively with others.
- Be punctual and reliable.
- Respect diversity and embrace different cultures.
- Be familiar with the local labor laws and regulations.
- Seek feedback and support when needed.
- Make an effort to integrate into your local community.
