Management Tip of the Day: Give Feedback That Crosses Cultures

Are you having trouble viewing this email? If so, click here to see it in a web browser. HOME   |   TIPS   |   BLOGS   |   THE MAGAZINE   |   BOOKS   |   STORE RSS   |   Mobile MAY 17, 2013 Give Feedback That Crosses Cultures Giving critical feedback is an essential part of a manager's job. But people in Shanghai don't provide feedback in the same way as people in Strasbourg or Stockholm, so how can do your job when you're working across cultures? Here are three tips: Learn the new rules. Read up on the values, beliefs, and assumptions people generally hold about social interactions in this region. Observe it in action to pick up on cues, such as how direct you're expected to be, or how important it is to save face in group settings. Customize your behavior. Don't assume you have to "go native." You can often create a blend of styles that's comfortable to you and effective in the new setting. Find a cultural mentor. Look for someone who's worked in the area, preferably for many years. She can help you craft an approach that fits you and the place you work. Today's Management Tip was adapted from "Giving Feedback Across Cultures" by Andy Molinsky. Read the full post and join the discussion » Share Today's Tip: FEATURED PRODUCT Ebooks on HBR HBR Press Did you know you can access your favorite HBR Press books in Ebook format? Get instant access to new releases like The First 90 Days, Updated and Expanded, recent bestsellers like Playing to Win and Conscious Capitalism and perennial classics like the HBR's 10 Must Reads series — without the hassle and cost of shipping. Visit our Ebook page to browse titles and learn more about this exciting offering. ADVERTISEMENT Follow the Tip: PREVIOUS TIPS Stop Going to So Many Meetings Job Seekers: Focus on Achievements Use Your Crowd to Source Ideas Go After High-Quality Revenue The Right Way to Voice Your Complaint Improve Your Ability to Anticipate Crises Set an Email Quota and Stick to It Don't Listen to Customers — Observe Them Set the Right Tone for Your Talk Know When It's Time to Quit Your Job All Previous Tips BEST SELLERS HBR Guide to Persuasive Presentations Ebook + Video Case Study HBR's 10 Must Reads on Leadership HBR's 10 Must Reads on Managing Yourself HBR's 10 Must Reads: The Essentials HBR Guide to Getting the Right Work Done Introducing Mobile ManageMentor Powered by the proven content of Harvard ManageMentor™ iTunes >> Android >> UNSUBSCRIBE   |   UPDATE YOUR PROFILE   |   MORE EMAIL NEWSLETTERS   |   PRIVACY POLICY Was this email forwarded to you? If so, sign up to start receiving your own copy. ABOUT THIS MAILING LIST You have received this message because you subscribed to the "Management Tip of the Day" email newsletter from Harvard Business Review. If at any point you wish to remove yourself from this list, change your email address, or sign up for other email newsletters and alerts, please visit the Harvard Business Review Email Newsletter Preference Center. OPT OUT If you do not wish to receive any email messages from Harvard Business Review, click here. ADVERTISE WITH HBR This enewsletter is read by thousands of decision makers every day. Learn more about connecting your brand with this audience. Copyright © 2013 Harvard Business School Publishing, an affiliate of Harvard Business School. All rights reserved. Harvard Business Publishing | 60 Harvard Way | Boston, MA 02163 Customer Service: 800-545-7685 (+1-617-783-7600 outside the U.S. and Canada)