Learning outcomes / skills

This module is intended to develop students’ cross-cultural effectiveness in the contexts of international business and diversity in the workplace with a focus on leadership and negotiation. After gaining deeper insight into the business practices of other regions, they will be able to understand and navigate other international business environments to foster synergies, create added value and competitive advantage. Students will also have a critical understanding of established theories of cross-cultural management and negotiation in business for practical application and further academic inquiry and research in this field.

Professional competences

After successful completion of this module, students will have:

·       critical understanding of leading theory in cross-cultural management and negotiation

·       in-depth understanding of the influence of culture, particularly as regards leadership and negotiation

·       insight into how to work in, build and manage cross-cultural teams

·       the skills to identify, avoid and resolve potential sources of culturally-based misunderstanding and/or conflict in business situations

·       the tools to prepare and execute business negotiations in a cross-cultural context

Technical competencies

After successful completion of this module, students will be able to:

·       independently research and further develop their knowledge of current trends in cross-cultural management for application in individual business situations

·       autonomously develop further their own cross-cultural and communication skills for effective business practice

·       demonstrate practical experience in cross-cultural teamwork 

·       evaluate, compare and present cross-cultural business theory and approaches in English in academic and professional contexts

Personal competences

After successful completion of this module, students will be able to:

·       reflect on and contribute to international and cross-cultural dialogue and co-operation in and beyond the business world

·       evaluate and develop their own negotiation and communication skills in English

·       understand, analyse and respond effectively to different negotiation and communication styles

Social competences

After successful completion of this module, students will have the resources to:

·       interact appropriately and effectively in culturally diverse business environments

·       communicate appropriately in international academic and business settings

·       identify and implement strategies to develop synergies and co-operation

·       share their knowledge and experience to foster effective cross-cultural interaction among peers and teams

Contents

·       Globalization and localization 

·       Culture (organizational, corporate, regional): definitions and applications in business

·       Cross-cultural management: theory, research and practice

·       Cross-cultural business communication 

·       Conflict avoidance, resolution and synergies

·       Negotiation theory, strategy and tactics

Methods of Teaching and Learning

·       Interactive seminar

·       Self-awareness, reasoned analysis and group participation are key skills for developing cultural effectiveness. The module seeks to develop team and communication skills in addition to continual reflection throughout the semester. 

·       Written and research assignments

·       Case studies and analysis in small groups

·       Independent study and research  

·       Constructive discussion and application

·       Presentations and Q&A for a cross-cultural audience

       Literature

       Further reading and resources will be listed on the syllabus distributed at the beginning of the course.