How to Help Foreigners Adapt to US Workplace Culture

Foreign workers require an adjustment period in U.S. workplaces

An international workforce can be beneficial to companies because it exposes employees to other customs and broadens their ability to communicate across international boundaries. When your company gains a new foreign employee, it is important to make a concerted effort to help the staff member adjust to the US workplace. As you help a foreign employee during their adjustment process, remind them that you are available and encourage them to ask questions: information is the key to a smooth transition.

Instructions

1. Research specifics about workplace traditions and culture in the foreign employee's home country. Schedule a time with the new employee to get an understanding of their normal work environment; doing so will make the employee feel valued and will allow you to spot potential problem areas in the adjustment process. Topics to address include dress code, working hours, behavior with superiors, how to address co-workers, cultural and openness of communication.

2. Hold a staff meeting. Before the foreign employee starts work, hold an all-office meeting to explain the situation; this is particularly important if the new co-worker's home country has markedly different traditions from your own. Explain that there will be an adjustment period and ask each person to make the new employee's transition as smooth as possible.

3. Offer an extended training period. As the foreign employee settles into the office, appoint another person to be his or her guide and be flexible about the amount of time needed to adjust. Choose a person who is open minded, patient, and who has traveled; this type of person will be better able to understand and deal with adjustment problems. Inform the new employee that he or she should feel free to ask any questions or raise any concerns as they adjust to the new workplace.

4. Include the entire office in social events. Part of the fun of working in a foreign office is the opportunity to participate in social traditions. Organize events for the company that represent U.S. culture: baseball games, happy hours, or staff retreats are possible options. Be sure to explain beforehand the recommended dress code and any other things a foreigner wouldn't necessarily be aware of.

5. Ask the new employee to share her culture. Invite foreign employees to share traditional dishes, holiday celebrations, or photos from home. Do this in small groups instead in front of the whole office to remove the pressure. Demonstrating curiosity about your new co-worker's home culture will allow her to speak freely about something they are comfortable with, which can be a relief from the constant adjustment to new standards.

6. Offer atypical American experiences to a foreign employee. Many foreigners come to the US with a preconceived idea of the culture. In addition to baseball games and other things shown in the movies, invite your new employee to try experiences that are specific to your region or workplace. Encourage participation in corporate brainstorming meetings, for example, or bring them to a local networking event.

References

• Adapting to a Foreign Workplace