Managing a multicultural team is much more difficult than just breaking down the language barriers. There is a multitude of differences between cultures which can be an issue in the workplace when managers do not understand the culture of their employees.
1.-FAILING TO BUILD A RELATIONSHIP
In general, Hispanics are more interested in developing a long-term relationship; a relationship based on trust and respect. This can take time. Trust begins with how they view you as a person, from your tone of voice, your actions, and understanding to them and their culture. Their trust is based on how well you make them feel when you interact with them, and your sensitivity to the needs of Hispanic/Latinos and the constraints they face in the workplace.
What to do: Take the time to talk and get to know each of your employees, ask about their family, friends, life, and remember important details. Be sensitive to their needs and limitations, and make them feel important
2. TAKING PERSONAL CONTACT TOO PERSONALLY
Hispanic/Latinos generally like and seek personal contact; they tend to embrace more, reach out for handshakes, touch the other person (without malice), and also to stand close to the person during conversation.
What to do: Handshake greet your employees (learn their “handshake”) allow them to stand near you (of course there is always a limit).
3. MISUNDERSTANDING THEIR LACK OF EYE CONTACT
With regard to eye contact, culturally Hispanics/Latinos tend to avoid eye contact. One reason is that they feel it is disrespectful, but don’t assume they’re hiding something, (though as always there are exceptions).
What to do: Do not force the person to look into your eyes and don’t react in a suspicious manner if they don’t look you into the eye.
4.ASSUMING INSTEAD OF AFFIRMING
Hispanics/Latinos have a tendency to move their heads in an affirmative way during a conversation, but this does not necessarily mean that they understand. The gesture is usually a sign of agreement, or that they are paying attention to you in conversation.
What to do: For starters, do not assume that they understood or agreed; ask them what did they understand and what they think of it, to make sure everything is clear and that they understood the idea you conveyed. And if you were you speaking to them in English, I suggest that in addition to the verbal instructions, also give them the instructions in written form or send them a text message.
5. NOT ADJUSTING YOUR COMMUNICATION
When communicating with Hispanic/Latino employees always try to recognize the “Platinum Rule” which is: Treat people the way they want to be treated.”
What to do: Pay attention to their reaction through their tone of voice and body language when you say or act upon something, and if you notice a negative reaction, ask them directly what they did and did not like in your way of communicating. Take the time to learn about their culture and customs related to interpersonal communication. Also, in a friendly manner, explain how you prefer them to communicate with you to prevent misunderstandings for a more cooperative relationship.
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