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November 7, 2013
Essential Mechanisms to Survive Corporate Life Abroad
At what cost is an expatriate life?
An international manager stands to gains so much in life, yet lets not forget how much he can also forsake! When the going gets tough, or when a natural or man-made disaster strikes, what is it that really counts?
Three Examples of Real Life Experiences
One
The Kenya Mall Attack has demonstrated how vulnerable expats (and humanity in total) really can be. An embassy worker decided to get the groceries from her favorite shopping center and enjoy a relaxing...Continue reading
By Debbie NicolPosted in International Management on November 7, 2013
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September 24, 2013
Three Tough Decisions All International Managers Face
How often should an international manager rely on corporate norms?
International managers need to address many situations throughout tenures, some expected and others not so. Multi-national companies send international managers to destinations quite often ‘unseen’ or ‘rarely visited’ and hence hold limited knowledge of the reality of doing business on the ground. In fact, it is not uncommon for International Managers to experience something very different from the picture painted during the transfer/promotion process, with this...Continue reading
By Debbie NicolPosted in International Management on September 24, 2013
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August 15, 2013
How to Prevent Cultural Conflict In International Organizations
3 Mechanisms International Managers Can Use To Strengthen Their Teams
Conflict and difference can separate or strengthen corporate teams, depending on how they are handled.
When handled poorly Separateness can fester into fears and incorrect judgments, all taking focus and energy off the very reason the organization exists, whereas when handled well, diverse approaches, insights and opinions have the potential to foster unity, increase teamwork and productivity.
When any conflict is not managed well, and the difference that exists is...Continue reading
By Debbie NicolPosted in International Management on August 15, 2013
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July 21, 2013
Debbie Nicol
Managing Director, 'business en motion'
Debbie Nicol
Managing Director
'business en motion'
Biography
Debbie’s career has been solely dedicated to embedding life-long learning into organizational behavior, enabling people to be business owners and drivers. Commencing her career as a teacher, Debbie soon developed a passion for organizational development, applying it across Hotel Management Companies in property, regional and International leadership roles.
Recognizing opportunity in alternate industries, her...Continue reading
By Debbie NicolPosted in International Management on July 21, 2013
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June 27, 2013
The Mind Of An International Manager – Open or closed for business?
Three essentials to pave the way for unity & success.
By Debbie Nicol, Managing Director, 'business en motion"
As international managers are often ‘on the move’, they can find themselves in unknown territory, affording many opportunities for open minds to show respect, understanding and empathy. Conversely, facing unknown territory with a closed mind can communicate ignorance and arrogance, as sadly demonstrated in this video.
To pave the way for unity & success during international assignments, take care with...Continue reading
By Debbie NicolPosted in International Management on June 27, 2013
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May 28, 2013
International Business: Dealing With Corruption When It’s The Norm
6 Tips To Balancing Ethical Obligations With Realistic Expectations
By Debbie Nicol, Managing Director, 'business en motion"
There are international assignments and then there are INTERNATIONAL ASSIGNMENTS! You may well ask – what could be the difference? Corruption is most certainly one of those differentiating factors that can truly test a manager in a new culture. The problem for you is that these practices, although they go against every legal and ethical standard you personally live by, are acceptable and competitive practices in your new...Continue reading
By Debbie NicolPosted in International Management on May 28, 2013
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April 30, 2013
3 Tips For Integrating Corporate Culture Into Developing Nations
How does your leadership approach change from country to country?
By Debbie Nicol, Managing Director, 'business en motion"
Developing nations are just that – developing! Similar to a child, as he or she develops, time is spent gathering information, experiencing different perspectives, receiving guidance, strengthening foundations and making choices that will provide a road to their desired future. This process is no different for developing nations. International organizations must take all of this into consideration when they establish...Continue reading
By Debbie NicolPosted in International Management on April 30, 2013
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March 21, 2013
3 Tips To Understanding Cultural Differences Before You Act
When Communication Meets Culture
By Debbie Nicol, Managing Director, 'business en motion"
Communication makes the world go around – or does it? When a person enters a new work & country culture, communication challenges seem to top the list of ‘lessons learned’. Why is it that an international manager can get something so basic, so wrong? The reasons can be seen contextualised in three everyday communication scenarios:
Meetings
Individualised feedback
Providing Instructions
Following...Continue reading
By Debbie NicolPosted in International Management on March 21, 2013
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February 14, 2013
How To Manage Cultural Differences That Come As A Surprise
Reflections From a Day at the Thai Theatre
By Debbie Nicol, Managing Director, 'business en motion"
One bright afternoon in downtown Bangkok, I ventured into a movie theater and experienced a tradition I had not experienced in any other country. Prior to the show, all patrons were requested to stand in respect to a tribute to the living king and a celebration of his contributions. Neither right nor wrong, just simply ‘what is’ in the land of smiles! Whilst of course I respected the request, I also further...Continue reading
By Debbie NicolPosted in International Management on February 14, 2013
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January 16, 2013
3 Tips to Consider Before Taking International Assignments
Make working in a remote location a win-win, not your corporate downfall.
By Debbie Nicol, Managing Director, 'business en motion'
Your current company has just offered you a most exciting corporate challenge indeed! It’s one that will certainly stretch you and move you one step closer to your ultimate goal. The opportunities that are likely to stem from this are beyond your wildest dreams! Yet, it IS in the newest and most remote corner of the globe! Here are three tips to ensure you make a well-informed decision about this employment...Continue reading
By Debbie NicolPosted in International Management on January 16, 2013
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