How to Make the Biggest Impact Based on Cultural Norms

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Adeola Adewusi credits his “cultural dexterity” to living and working on five continents. 

The senior HR director, Americas at Stanley Black & Decker told HR Brew it has served him well as a people professional because he “can understand the dynamic of a particular culture and what’s important to them.” 

With Stanley Black & Decker, Adewusi oversees about 2,500 employees along the supply chain in nearly a dozen countries. All of Adewusi’s work on HR policies and programs and how he leads is informed by his cultural competencies, and it’s important to him that HR professionals don’t forget the human connections that make the function so special.

Is Your Business Ready for the World Stage?

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Rhett Power says "success in the U.S. does not ensure success in other countries, and a translated website alone does not a global business make. To succeed abroad, American companies must account for differences in local cultures."

Research from CultureWizard found that 24% of respondents spend at least 76% of their time on global work. High-performing global businesses consistently ranked higher for indicators of cultural awareness and intercultural competencies, suggesting that companies with a global mindset do better than their geographically narrowed peers.

Power goes on to caution:  "Before you set up shop in new territory, make a few preparations."

Here they are -- a four-step process to prepare your company for global expansion.