Do great minds think alike? Not really. The best way to connect with someone is to get to know what we have in common. We often on a first meet look for commonalities in the small talk and social cues before we get down to any serious business. Companies may have a common purpose or goal to collaborate for a mutually beneficial outcome, but that’s not always enough. Getting to know one another, the stakeholders in an organization and mutual comfort zones, makes the difference in doing the deal. When it comes down to two competing equally skilled companies for the same bid or contract, the “people element is crucial”. Understanding communication and leadership styles across cultures is the key to having a leading edge in doing business in the UAE.
This week a delegation of top industry and government representatives participated in Dubai’s Week in China where 11 separate agreements between public and private sectors were formed. Highlights of this year’s week in China, held in Shanghai saw among other successes the strengthening of relationships with China’s business and educational endeavors. “China is Dubai’s largest trading partner since 2014 and cooperation’s are extending beyond just trade.” says Kayed. “Students are traveling from China to the UAE to take advantage of some of the world class MBA programs here. Our recent participation in IUNC shows that university recruiters see the value in cultural immersions as part of their orientation for students and agree that it helps with retention and happiness for students studying abroad.” Mr. Kayed MC’d the “Cultural Intelligence for Future Leaders” forum at the DWiC, as well as giving talks at the Department of Tourism and Commerce event, and hosting a day of cultural immersion for participants. “Cultural Intelligence abilities and competencies have become crucial to having an edge in highly competitive markets such as Dubai and China. These skills can be developed and enhanced with first building cultural knowledge. “
With an agreement signed this week between China and the Dubai, allowing for attestation of certificates and a reciprocal agreement between the two countries on education, the UAE will see an increase in Chinese students taking advantage of the world class schools and universities on offer in the UAE. With that will come the necessity for universities to address cultural issues from the start, to allow students to have the best possible education and satisfaction in the process. Universities like, SP Jain Global School of Management, Hult MBA’s and Modul University have already taken the initiative with orientation programs for international students that introduce local cultural norms, traditions and opportunities for enhancing their cultural knowledge. Managing across cultures is the norm in international cities like Dubai and Shanghei. Therefore students need to be prepared, with the proper mix of skills that take into consideration so called “soft skills” like Cultural Intelligence and Cultural Competencies.