Dr. Lorraine Wiseman – Cross-Cultural Communication: How To Flex Your Style (Download)
Misunderstandings across cultures damage business relationships, create workplace tension, and cost opportunities. A gesture that shows respect in one culture may offend in another. Direct communication valued in some countries seems rude elsewhere. As workplaces become increasingly global and remote teams span continents, the ability to communicate effectively across cultural boundaries isn’t optional—it’s essential for professional success.
About the Course and Instructor
Cross-Cultural Communication: How To Flex Your Style is taught by Dr. Lorraine Wiseman, PhD, through the Life Progression Project. Dr. Wiseman brings over 25 years of international business experience, having held presidential roles in seven companies across six countries. Her practical teaching approach combines real-world examples with interactive exercises to develop genuine cross-cultural competency.
What You’ll Learn
Understanding Culture Fundamentals
Explore what culture truly means and how your perceptions shape interactions. Discover why cultural understanding matters for building relationships, avoiding unintended offense, and succeeding in diverse professional environments.
Cultural vs. Personality Profiles
Learn to distinguish between cultural influences and individual personality traits. Examine cultural profiles based on gender, generation, and social class. Understand how personality assessments differ from cultural analysis to avoid stereotyping while recognizing meaningful patterns.
Geert Hofstede’s Cultural Dimensions Model
Master this research-backed framework analyzing six key dimensions:
Power Distance – How societies handle authority and hierarchy
Individualism vs. Collectivism – Personal independence versus group harmony
Masculinity vs. Femininity – Assertiveness versus modesty in cultural values
Risk Tolerance – Comfort with uncertainty and ambiguity
Time Orientation – Short-term versus long-term thinking
Indulgence vs. Restraint – Emphasis on enjoyment versus control
Apply this model through practical exercises to navigate real cross-cultural situations.
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Flexing Your Communication Style
Recognize verbal and non-verbal cues across cultures. Learn to use language appropriately, understand personal space expectations, and interpret expressions and gestures correctly. Master the differences between direct and indirect communication styles, and adapt your pace and sense of timing to match cultural preferences.
Building Rapport Across Cultures
Develop strategies for connecting authentically with people from any background. Learn how to adjust your approach based on cultural context while maintaining genuine relationships with coworkers, clients, virtual assistants, and stakeholders worldwide.
Practical Application
The course includes six hands-on exercises and multiple examples allowing you to practice new skills immediately. Complete continuing professional education (CPE) review quizzes to reinforce learning and earn professional development credit.
Whether you work with international teams, serve diverse customers, or manage global partnerships, these skills help you communicate confidently and build stronger cross-cultural relationships.
