Applying for a job in a

different culture
Intercultural job applications and interviews

Jan-Carl Dewulf
Renu Dhillon
Stijn Verhaeghe
Content
Introduction

Step 1: Cultural awareness

Step 2: Prepare yourself

Step 3: Make the communication work

Pitfalls

Conclusion
Introduction
Belgian expats worldwide:

1. France 81.422
2. Holland 23.512
3. Germany 21.349
4. Spain 20.056
5. United States 18.095
6. Luxembourg 16.460
7. Switzerland 13.527
8. United Kingdom 11.786
9. Canada 11.063

In total: 289.062 registrated, an estimated 500.000 overall.

Why are cross cultural
communication skills important?
Just a few examples:
Step 1: Cultural awareness
Definition: being aware of and sensitive to other cultures
when you are exchanging information.

Don’t assume that your perspective is the better perspective.

Understanding is not enough, act upon it.

Step 2: Prepare yourself
Preparation is half the victory:
• it is important to be curious
• try to understand the beliefs and behaviours of other cultures

Do not use generalisms directly.

Examples: UK & Asia

Step 3: Make the communication work
Checklist:

 Status
 Observation
 Listening 
 Speaking 
 Empathy
 Feeling
Pitfalls
Legal environment

Extra documentation or information

Salary and other benefits

On-line application
Pitfalls
Stereotypes

Perceiving other cultures

What is normal?

Open disagreement

Punctuality
Conclusion

Learn by doing: build up intercultural experience!