In today’s world we are able to connect with people from all over the world. We can visit each other, we can call, we can use Skype, WhatsApp, Zoom etc. There are many possibilities to easily work together with other cultures. The question is why some intercultural collaborations still lead to confusion, misunderstanding and even conflicts.
Time is a fascinating concept that has been researched many times by philosophers, anthropologists and modern scientists. There are many different perceptions of time that are caused partially by culture.
During my time at a big international hotel in Mallorca my team and I had the task to make sure the guests spent their money at the hotel. In order to do so, we hosted a big event every evening. The more engaging the program, the longer people stayed, and the more money was spent at the bar. To create excitement and hype for the evening it was important to get to know the guests during the day. We did this by playing sports and games, which wasn’t as easy as it sounds.
Let’s be honest: do you know any Dutch person who wakes up happy on King’s day because it’s the King’s birthday? I know I don’t. We do not particularly adore the King. Nonetheless, the Netherlands sees the most exuberant celebration of a King’s or Queen’s birthday in the world. The celebration’s most remarkable feature? Its flea market. Who wants to spend their free time selling old rubbish in the street?
So one arrives – with qualifications that aren’t valid – in a country with an unknown language and culture. And for animals of habit – which we are – this means there’s work to be done. Learning a new language and culture takes time and effort, as does getting used to a life and a country in which everything is different. Regardless of how well you prepare, it’s a process that has its ups and downs. And forget just popping in on family and friends – it’s simply no longer possible. In fact, your partner is the only support you have, certainly in the beginning.
