podcast IIC Marise, Max, Charlotte, Asia

A collaboration between Dutch and Polish renewable energy companies is explored, focusing on windmills and solar panels. The cultural differences between Poland and the Netherlands are discussed, including power distance, individualism, uncertainty avoidance, indulgence, and long-term orientation. Differences in communication, authority, scheduling, decision-making, persuasion, and trust are also highlighted. The importance of relationship building in the Polish context is emphasized, with the suggestion of a beer tasting event to encourage connections. The stages of adaptation and integration in intercultural encounters are discussed. Differences in cultural dimensions according to Trompenaar are briefly mentioned, including universalism versus particularism and individualism versus communitarianism. Welcome, everyone, to another episode of Sustainable Bridges, where we explore the intricate threads of global collaboration. I'm your host, Charlotte, and today we have a fascinating story unfolding between the Netherlands and Poland. Joining me are two Dutch experts, Maurice and Max, and a special guest from Poland, Asha. Together, we'll unravel the story of windmills, solar panels, and collaborative energy future. Together, we'll unravel the story of windmills, solar panels, and collaborative energy future. To set the stage, let's dive into business situations. The Polish renewable energy company, RWE Renewables Poland seeks windmills, and the Dutch renewable energy company... To set the stage, let's dive into business situations. The Polish renewable energy company, RWE Renewables Poland seeks windmills, and the Dutch renewable energy company, Archyds, in turn, has its eye on solar panels. It's a symbiotic dance of sustainable energy exchange. We are gearing up for a meetup in... We're gearing up for a meetup in Noordwijk, Netherlands, where 10 businessmen from Archyds will introduce the RWE delegations to the impressive windmills gracing the North Sea. But before we unveil the windmills, let's ground ourselves in the cultural nuances of businesses. Through the lenses of Osfed, Trumpenars, and Mayer, we'll explore the theoretical foundations shaping businesses' practices in Poland and the Netherlands. Maryse, can you tell me something about Osfed's cultural dimensions? Of course. Osfede has six dimensions. On power distance, Poland tends to have a higher power distance index compared to the Netherlands, so you can say that they have a preference for a higher... Of course. Osfede has six dimensions. On power distance, Poland tends to have a higher power distance index compared to the Netherlands, so you can say that they have a preference for hierarchical structures. This means that everybody has a place, and there is no need for future... Future? Further. Of course. Osfede has six dimensions. On power distance, Poland tends to have a higher power distance index compared to the Netherlands, so you can say that they have a preference for hierarchical structures. This means that everybody has a place, and there is no need for further justification and subordinates expected to be told what to do. The Netherlands, on the other hand, typically has a lower power distance index, with employees being independent, all equal, and communication... Wait. The Netherlands, on the other hand, typically has a lower power distance index, with employees being independent, all equal, and communicating direct and participative. Talking about the Netherlands being independent, they have the higher score in individualism, reflecting a culture that values individual rights and autonomy. Poland, on the other hand, tends to show a stronger inclination towards collectivism, with a score of 47 on the Hofstede model, emphasizing group harmony and interdependence. As I said, Poland has a very hierarchical culture, which makes it very masculine. They emphasize success and achievement. The Netherlands is, on the other hand, very feminine. They are all for the quality of life and collaboration. An uncertainty avoidance is Poland's very high, indicating a preference for clear rules and structure, while the Netherlands may have a lower score, suggesting a greater tolerance for ambiguity and uncertainty. They have a need for rules, and their time is money. Despite the need for rules, the Netherlands is higher than Poland on indulgence. They want to enjoy life and have fun. Poland, on the other hand, is very restrained. They are very pessimistic. People with this orientation have the perception that their actions are restrained by social norms and feel that indulging themselves is somewhat wrong. As the last I mentioned, the Netherlands is higher on long-term orientation, which means that they are focused on the future. With a scale of 67, they value persistence, perseverance, saving, and being able to adapt. Poland has a scale of 49, which says that they are nor focused on the future, nor focused on the present or past. They don't have a strong preference to either end of the scale. Oh wow. As you see, there are some big differences in the host status model, but Asha, how is the mayor's cross-cultural theory? There are also quite some differences on the mayor's cross-cultural theory. Communication in Poland, for instance, might be more direct, relying on context and relationships. Non-verbal cues, such as tone and body language, may carry significant meaning. Dutch communication tends to be more direct and explicit. Clear and straightforward communication is valued, and messages are often conveyed explicitly. The Dutch are therefore a low-context country, but Poland tends to be more of a low-context than a high-context. In terms of leading, Poland has a... Hierarchical approach to authority that may be more... Hierarchical... Hierarchical approach to authority that may be more... The fuck is wrong? Hierarchical approach to authority that may be more... Hierarchical approach to authority that may be more prevalent, with respect for authority figures and a structured organizational... Hierarchy. The Dutch tend to have a more... The Dutch tend to have a more egalitarian approach to authority, emphasizing open communication and a flatter organizational structure. On scheduling, Poland is way more relaxed, with an emphasis on relationships and quality over strict adherence to schedules. Dutch culture, on the other hand, places a high value on punctuality and efficiency. Meetings and appointments often start and end on time. For Poland, the decision-making might involve a more consultative process, with input from various stakeholders... The decision-making might involve a more consultative process, with input from various stakeholders and an emphasis on building consensus. In the Netherlands, it is more direct and efficient, with decisions made by a smaller group or even an individual. On persuasion, Poland has a more cautious approach to risk, with a preference for tired and tested methods and aversion to uncertainty. Dutch culture may have a higher tolerance for risk and a willingness to experiment with new ideas and approaches. On the trusting stage, Poland is based on relationships and building those. The Netherlands are more task-based, no need for building a relationship. Of course, I'm aware of that, but it's still true that it's a cultural thing for Polish people to be very indirect and be more comfortable having a strong person in power to follow, a superior. It's obvious that we have a preference to follow rules in situations where there's a clear structure, but because of that, differences between the Polish people and people from the Netherlands are created and then misunderstandings. I like both ideas, but we should also focus on relationship building, especially in the Polish context. We should allocate time for personal interactions and relationship development, as it plays a significant role in business dealings. Building a relationship allows a deeper understanding of non-verbal cues, unspoken expectations, and the subtle nuances in communication that might not be immediately apparent in more direct cultures, cultures like Dutch. Polish professionals may place a higher value on... Polish professionals may place a higher value on hierarchy, informal relationships, and business. Taking the time to build relationships allows... Taking the time to build relationships allows for the acknowledgement of professional hierarchy. Taking the time to build relationships allows for the acknowledgement of professional hierarchies. Trust, participating in social events, genuine interest, and long-term commitment provide a more open and relaxed atmosphere, which leads to a... which leads to a respectful working environment. Great. That's a very good idea. The goal is to create an atmosphere that encourages genuine... The goal is to create an atmosphere that encourages genuine... The goal is to create an atmosphere that encourages genuine connections and relationships building between businessmen from the Netherlands and Poland. So a beer tasting event would be perfect. Wish I could join them. I love beer. With my score being 65, I'm put on the adaptation stage, which means I can navigate... With my score being 65, I'm put on the adaptation stage, which means I can navigate conversations with people from different cultures and expand my perspectives based on the other's view. I think that this stage accurately fits how I behave in intercultural... I think that this stage accurately fits how I behave in intercultural encounters. I think I would get to the integration stage by simply interacting more with different cultures and nationalities, since I didn't get many chances to do so before starting studies in a different country. As you see, there are some big differences on Hostaida... As you see, there are some big differences on the Hostaida model, compared to ASHA. How is this on Meijer's cross-cultural theory? Again, we see a lot of differences between the Netherlands and Poland. They have completely different cultures. Max, could you align us on the dimensions of Trompenaar? Trompenaar has seven dimensions. The first is universalism versus particularism. Trompenaar has seven dimensions. The first is universalism versus particularism. Trompenaar has seven dimensions. The first is universalism versus particularism. Poland may lean towards particularism, featuring unique circumstances and relationships in decision-making. The Netherlands may have a more universalistic approach, emphasizing standardized rules and procedures. The second dimension is individualism... The second dimension is individualism... The second dimension is individualism versus communitarianism, consistent with Hostaida. The Netherlands may lean towards individualism, while Poland might emphasize a more communitarian approach, valuing group interests over individual pursuits. The third dimension is neutral versus emotional. Poland tends to be more emotional in communication and expression. The third dimension is neutral versus emotional. Poland tends to be more emotional in communication and expression, with a greater emphasis on feelings and personal connections. The Netherlands demonstrates a more neutral communication style, prioritizing rationally and objectivity over emotional expression. Does that look good, or do I have to do it again? Prioritizing rationally and objectivity over emotional expression. The fourth dimension is specific versus diffuse. Poland displays a more diffuse approach, where personal and professional lives are interconnected. Relationships may extend beyond the workplace. The Netherlands, on the other hand, adopts a specific approach, maintaining a clearer separation between personal and professional life. The fifth dimension is achievement versus description. Poland tends to value achievement, where one's status is earned through accomplishments and merit. The Netherlands demonstrates a description orientation, where status is attributed based on factors such as age, location, or family background. The sixth dimension is sequential versus... Can we put it... The sixth dimension is sequential versus synchronic. Poland often follows a sequential time orientation, where tasks are approached one at a time, and punctuality is important but may be more flexible. The Netherlands adopts a synchronic time orientation, focusing on multiple tasks simultaneously and placing a high value on punctuality and efficiency. The last dimension is internal versus external. Poland typically shows preference for internal control, where individuals feel they have a significant impact on their destiny and can shape their future. However, the Netherlands may lean towards external control, recognizing external factors and influences on outcomes, and a more accepting attitude towards circumstances beyond individual control. There is also the Bennett scale, but this is of course mostly for individuals and hard to say about a whole country. Talking about their business events, I might say that the companies are in a minimization or acceptance stage, since they are both willing to work with different cultures and trying to make it work on business level. Thank you for sharing these theories. How accurately do they reflect cultural dimensions of our two nations? We'll analyze the scores and delve into the strengths and weaknesses of each theory. Joining me are the experts on Dutch and Polish grounds, each providing their unique insights into cultural landscapes. Yes, I think those Dutch theories are very accurate. We are almost always on time and keep our business and private life separate. The Dutch are also very individualistic and like to work on things on their own. I see those things a lot in my own working environment, especially being on time. If you work at a supermarket, for instance, your money gets deducted every minute that you are too late. I think it might not be the best thing that we are very individualistic. It makes it very hard to actually work together and to communicate correctly on different tasks. This might be a weakness of Dutch culture. A big strength of our Dutch culture is that we are feminine. Everyone is equal and if a woman has the chance to become a boss at a large company, she will definitely grab this opportunity with both hands and has an even chance of getting the job as a man. After doing the research and learning more about it, I recognize myself and other people around me in the theories. We are for sure very different from Poland. I do agree on that. Being a feminine culture is a very big step to equality for all humans. I also think that a strength of ours is our... I also think that a strength of ours is our egalitarian approach to authority. We actually can communicate with our bosses and leaders and are very open. This is a very good thing. Especially... Especially if we want to be a democracy... Democracy... Democracy next. Especially if we want to be a democracy. Especially... Especially if we want to be a democracy. Being very direct is also a thing... Being very direct is also a thing us Dutchies are good at. And this is both good and bad. We like it to be direct because sugarcoating is not our biggest strength. We just like to say things how we see them. Some cultures, like Poland, don't have this approach, which makes us harsh sometimes. I promise Asia, we mean well. Now, let's brainstorm... You want to... Interesting. Now, let's brainstorm solutions. How can we handle this cross-culture business venture effectively? Each of my guests will present different proposals and scenarios and others will weigh their viability. From windmills to solar panels, what approach would you ensure a smooth transition and fruitful collaboration? From windmills to solar panels, what approach would ensure a smooth transition and fruitful collaboration? To make a business situation between Poland and the Netherlands emerge more effectively... To make a business situation between Poland and the Netherlands emerge more effectively, it's crucial to leverage an understanding of their cultural dimensions and differences. My idea is that both teams can engage in a cultural sensitivity training before the meeting. Its purpose would be to establish clear expectations for communication protocols to... Its purpose would be to establish clear expectations for communication protocols to mitigate a misunderstanding. I think that's a really good idea. If we focus on key cultural dimensions, such as power distance, individualism... Oh, again, the fuck... I think that's a really good idea. If we focus on key cultural dimensions, such as power distance, individualism, collectivism, uncertainty avoidance and communication styles, the meeting will definitely run way more smoothly. My idea is to bring in cultural liaisons or individuals with a deep understanding of both Polish and Dutch cultures. They can serve as bridges to facilitate effect communication and understanding between the two parties. I completely agree with you. The Dutch might have more of an informal business culture and are typically punctual on value efficiency, but they won't say no to a social event which involves beer. Both the Netherlands and Poland have a rich beer culture. We should organize a beer tasting festival where participants can sample a variety of Dutch and Polish beers, including discussions on brewing techniques, cultural significance and anecdotes related to beer in both countries. Very good solutions and ideas. Thank you for that. But the heart of this collaboration lies in the hands of our future leaders. Let's reflect on our position on the benefit scale. How would you contribute to this Polish-Dutch collaboration? Let's build bridges across cultures and energy solutions. Maryse, would you like to start? Yes, of course. My position on the benefit scale is 50, so I'm in the acceptance stage. I do agree with my score. I think now that I'm studying ICM, it's becoming easier for me to accept different cultures. I really like communicating with people from other countries, especially at school. I already learned a lot of different things about all of their countries. I think my score has become higher since studying here. Before, I was a bit more against other cultures and the differences between me and them. ICM really helped me learn more and made my view of other cultures way broader. By traveling, I can probably work on my score. This way, I get to learn more about other countries while being there. I really started to like exploring other cultures and the differences, but also our similarities. Asia, what about you? I have a score of 45, which is the minimization stage, which I don't know how to feel about. I am an international student who has moved countries and continents every three years. I've got to know and understand many different cultures from around the world. That being said, I have a score of 45, which is the minimization stage, which I don't know how to feel about. I am an international student who has moved countries and continents every three years. I have a score of 45, which is the minimization stage, which I don't know how to feel about. I have a score of 45, which is the minimization stage, which I don't know how to feel about. I am an international student who has moved countries and continents every three years. I have a score of 45, which is the minimization stage, which I don't know how to feel about. I have a score of 45, which is the minimization stage, which I don't know how to feel about. I have a score of 45, which is the minimization stage, which I don't know how to feel about. I have a score of 45, which is the minimization stage, which I don't know how to feel about. I have a score of 45, which is the minimization stage, which I don't know how to feel about. I have a score of 45, which is the minimization stage, which I don't know how to feel about. I have a score of 45, which is the minimization stage, which I don't know how to feel about. I do love interacting with different cultures. All my friends are international students and it makes me open to different cultures. I think it's fun to talk about cultural differences, but it does not make me treat them a different way just because they come from another place. I think it's fun to talk about cultural differences, but it does not make me treat them a different way just because they come from another place. I have my opinions and thoughts and I will obviously never say anything to offend another culture, but it has to go both ways. I have my opinions and thoughts and I will obviously never say anything to offend another culture, but it has to go both ways. If you respect my culture, I respect yours. Max, what about you? What did you get? I scored 54 in the development model of intercultural sensitivity, placing me in the acceptance stage. This resonates with my experience. I acknowledge moments where I navigated cultural situations adaptively, reflecting a genuine acceptance of diversity. I acknowledge moments where I navigated cultural situations adaptively, reflecting a genuine acceptance of diversity. I acknowledge moments where I navigated cultural situations adaptively, reflecting a genuine acceptance of diversity. I acknowledge moments where I navigated cultural situations adaptively, reflecting a genuine acceptance of diversity. However, I admit feeling... However, I admit feeling occasionally discomfort when unsure about appropriate actions. Fortunately, such instances are infrequent. Embracing this result serves as a reminder of my cultural growth and encourages me to further... Cultivate a confident, inclusive approach. It's affirming to recognize progress while remaining open to continuous learning in diverse settings. It's affirming to recognize progress while remaining open to continuous learning in diverse settings. It's affirming to recognize progress while remaining open to continuous learning in diverse settings. The acceptance stage blithely captures my evolving intercultural journey. The acceptance stage blithely captures my evolving intercultural journey. As the sun sets over the North Sea, we wrap up this episode of Sustainable Bridges. A huge thank you to our insightful guests, Aisha, Maurice, and Max. I'm Charlotte, urging you to stay tuned for the next stories of collaboration, innovation, and sustainable energy. Until next time, goodbye.