Defined as “”beliefs about the characteristics, attributes, and behaviours of members of certain groups”", stereotyping is a process that we engage in at one time or other towards a group of people who do not conform to our way of life. We hold their “”weird”" practices and wholly different ideals, for instance, as reasons to justify our ugly and intolerant attitudes.

There are some people who stereotype a person by virtue of his physical attributes, or dress sense. And then proceed to over-generalize the entire community that said person belongs to – which is often negative to say the least.

Regardless, such behaviour – if left unchecked – inevitably becomes prejudice; and subsequently selective discrimination and xenophobia. Not only productivity and work relations in the workplace are adversely affected, but so is the organization’s reputation and credibility. Furthermore, its Competitive Advantage and Market Leadership are harmed as well.

Thus, as a Culturally Intelligent individual, we are able to adapt ourselves to a completely new cultural work environment and ethics quickly and easily. We also become tolerant of people who never, or refuse to adjust themselves accordingly. In other words, Culture Shock is not an issue that we have to cope with; as no effort is spared to facilitate a smooth transition to our new environment.

We do not expect people with prejudicial mindsets to reciprocate our actions. But we are clearly at an advantage as – besides learning each new experience encountered – we embrace it readily. That makes us the more flexible in our future dealings with more varied groups of people, as globalisation is here to stay.

Thus, it is crucial that we check ourselves when we are caught in situations that lead us to stereotype new people we meet – due to first impressions. It is inevitable, but keep in mind that we are in turn “”tarred with the same brush”" by these same people, if not broadly.

Ange Teo is the Founder of e2m expat etiquette mentoring, a Singapore-based Cross-Cultural Communications Solutions Provider.

She has worked with some of the world’s leading multinational companies and Singapore-based small medium enterprises for over 20 years. Thus, Ange Teo has a good understanding on the intricacies of Intercultural work relations. Besides her intense belief in the importance of Cross-Cultural competency – a critical aspect of an organization’s global competitive advantage.

For more information about e2m Cultural Intelligence [CQ]-focused Communications Solutions, please visit e2m expat etiquette mentoring. An Interculturalist’s perspective on Life, the Cosmoverse and Everything: the blue marble we live in

Article source

Tags: ethical, company, organisation, training, code

In business the need for exceptional and affordable gifts is a must. Corporate gift baskets are a great way to maintain existing relationships and welcome new business clients. Corporate gifts also make a great motivator for increasing sales and motivating employees to exceed the standard.

Some occasions that warrant a business gift:

Corporate Gifts for a new clients – Send thanks to new and important clients with a unique gift basket.

Corporate gift baskets for major Holidays – Send an exceptional gift to employee and clients for Christmas, Hanukkah, New Years, Easter, Fourth of July and Thanksgiving to name a few.

Corporate gifts for welcoming a new baby – Send a beautifully arranged gift to a new mother or father.

Corporate Gift Baskets for Client or Employees birthdays – Send an impressive birthday gift basket to recognize an individual’s special day.

Corporate gifts for retirement –Show your gratitude to an employee for their dedication and long service to your business.

Some other great occasions for corporate gift giving are completion of major products, weddings or just to say thank you for a great job.

When choosing a corporate gift, the gift must be sophisticated and in the company’s budget; For an elegant and impressive gift choose a wine or champagne gift. Wine gift baskets are designed to please and impress any wine lover. Fruit baskets are a healthy and delicious way to give thanks or congratulate and can also make an office gift since it can be enjoyed by the whole office. Gourmet gift baskets are always an appropriate choice for corporate gifts. Go a little further and show your appreciation with a thank you themed gourmet gift basket.

For those occasions when you want something a little more unique choose a unique gift such as a gourmet dinner or delicious dessert such as tortes or cheesecakes all delivered right to your recipient’s door. For a more personal approach send a gift basket tailored to their hobby golf, fishing and gardening are some great examples.

Whatever you decide to choose you should always abide by the gift giving etiquette guidelines and always check company policies regarding gift giving both yours and the recipients.

From The Heart Gift Baskets – Gifts for all occasions and holidays.

You can check her site here.

Article Source

Tags: ethical, companies, company, organisation, corporate