Dutch people working in India regularly encounter cultural barriers and communication problems. The following five tips will make it easier for you to work in India.
1. Give smart feedback
Never publicly attack a manager. That is fatal. If you want to share critical ideas, do it in private. This is often appreciated and they usually do something with it.
2. Use an interpreter
Of course, many Indians speak English very well, but even if you speak the same language, that does not mean that you understand each other. An interpreter who is familiar with both cultures can build a bridge between Dutch people doing business in India and their Indian managers, partners and/or employees.
3. Take more time to prepare properly
Many foreigners who have been to India on business are dead tired when they board the plane back to Europe. This is often because they do not take enough time in India. If you have an important meeting on Monday, fly the Friday before. That way you can acclimatise and appear fresh and sharp at your appointment.
4. Take young employees by thehand
Indians are very ambitious, they fight to get ahead. You notice this at the baggage belt at the airport: everyone is in the lead. You can see it on the work floor as well. There are a lot of young people who are very driven. The trick is to take them by the hand so you can tap into their potential. That gives a lot of satisfaction.
5. Is India really so different? Think twice!
Many Dutch people say that everything is different in India, but if you take a good look at these tips, you will realise that it is not that different. Another example: building trust. Do you trust a Dutch supplier as soon as you shake his hand? No, that trust only comes after he consistently delivers on time and you have known each other for a few years. In India, it's no different, only your trust relationship starts differently and it takes longer before you close your first deal.
Want to know more about working in India? Sign up for the workshop 'Communicating Effectively with Indians' on 15 September!