Cultural Training Malaysia: Effective Multicultural Team Management Tips

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When working in multicultural teams in Malaysia our cultural differences can impact our work relationships and project success.

In many Western cultures, where direct communication is valued and rewarded, ‘you say what you mean and mean what you say’. But this communication style often comes across as confrontational, blunt and even crude to most Malaysians.

Here are some tips for Western executives to work more effectively with Malaysian colleagues :

1. Malaysians use a lot of indirect communication and will make saving ‘face’ a priority over being blunt and truthful.

2. Malaysians are generally subjective people, basing their decisions on feelings as well as fact. This is reflected in their desire to know their business partners in a personal way before doing business with them.

3. Be very clear about what and when a task is expected from your Malaysian colleagues. They may view initiative and urgency differently which can impact your deadlines.

4. At meetings, Malaysians tend to be very good listeners but they expect the same politeness from others. Do not interrupt someone while they are making a point and keep the meeting tone formal, soft spoken and respectful.

5. Negotiations and persuading in Malaysia can take a great deal of patience. Building the personal relationship with colleagues is extremely important. Malaysians are motivated by and only like to work with those who have earned their respect and trust.

6. Malaysian teams may appear to lack initiative and drive. They will rarely challenge a leader’s ideas or report bad news timely. The hierarchy within a team or the company will often be strictly observed.

By following these tips you can avoid the key communication and workplace challenges that impede you and your Malaysian multicultural teams from reaching your goals.

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