Bardzo mi przykro, ale lekcje na platformie The Blue Tree działają jedynie na komputerze lub tablecie.
Do zobaczenia na większym ekranie 🙂
Zespół The Blue Tree
THE BLUE TREE
Culture
CEFR B2
Upper
Intermediate
warm up
Answer the questions below. Then listen to some model answers.
| Have you ever experienced a cultural stereotype? How accurate was it? |
TRANSCRIPT
Yes, I have. When I first worked with a team in Germany, people expected them to be extremely serious and strict about rules. In reality, they were very friendly and had a great sense of humour. They were organised, yes, but not cold at all. It taught me that stereotypes may contain a small truth, but they never describe the whole person.
| What strategies can help us show respect and tolerance when working with colleagues from different cultures? |
TRANSCRIPT
For me, the key is curiosity. I try to ask questions instead of making assumptions. I also observe how people communicate—some are direct, while others are more diplomatic. Listening carefully and not interrupting helps a lot. And finally, I always check my tone, because what feels normal in one culture may sound rude in another. Small adjustments can make cooperation much smoother.
| Should people adapt their behaviour when working abroad, or stay true to their usual style? Why? |
TRANSCRIPT
I think we should find a balance. When we work abroad, it’s respectful to adjust to local expectations—things like punctuality, communication style, or meeting etiquette. But we shouldn’t pretend to be someone else. If we adapt too much, we lose our authenticity, which is also important in business. So for me, it’s about being flexible but still keeping your own values and personality.
part one
READING
Read a short article about diversity and tolerance and discuss the questions that follow.
Diversity and Tolerance in International Business
When people talk about cultural differences, they often use simple examples: “Americans are outgoing and informal,” or “British people are reserved.” Many of us feel that there is a grain of truth in these ideas. But as soon as we say them aloud, we immediately remember that reality is far more complicated. Age, personal background, education, family values, region, and personality can all influence how someone behaves.
So what’s the real point?
The main message is that our way is not the only way. Other cultures may communicate, plan, negotiate, or make decisions differently. It doesn’t mean they are wrong. It simply means that people learn different habits and expectations from the society around them.
In an international business environment, this awareness becomes extremely useful. When we meet colleagues or clients from other countries, the first step is to observe and listen. Notice how they speak—do they get straight to the point, or do they build a bit of small talk first? Do they prefer written communication, or do they like a quick call? Do they expect clear decisions from the leader, or do they want every voice to be heard?
We do not have to change who we are. Nobody expects us to throw away our personality or forget our customs. But it does help to be flexible. For example:
- If your colleague comes from a culture with strict punctuality, be on time—even five minutes early.
- If your client prefers indirect communication, avoid being too blunt.
- If your team values open discussion, speak up and share your ideas.
- If your partner prefers a relationship-based style, invest time in getting to know them—maybe over coffee or a longer lunch.
These small adjustments are not about pretending or “putting on a mask.” They show that we understand differences and that we care about cooperation. In return, we also have the right to expect the same respect from others.
In short, successful international business depends on both tolerance and curiosity. When we stay open-minded and willing to learn, we build trust more easily. And trust, as many leaders will tell you, is the real foundation of effective teamwork across cultures.
towarzyski, otwarty
powściągliwy, skryty
ziarnko prawdy
świadomość
przechodzić prosto do sedna
bezpośredni do granic, obcesowy, zbyt szczery
odezwać się, zabrać głos, mówić otwarcie
chętny, gotowy (coś zrobić)
DISCUSSION
Answer these questions about the article and your own experience.
 | Why does the article say that stereotypes contain “a grain of truth”? |
| What are some signs you can observe to understand how someone prefers to communicate? |
| Why does the article argue that we don’t need to change our personality when working internationally? |
| Which of the practical examples (punctuality, indirect communication, building relationships, etc.) do you find most useful in your work? Why? |
| What does the text say about flexibility and cooperation? |
NATIONAL IDIOSYNCRACIES
Listen to some people talking about times when they experienced some quirk traditions and customs on their travel or business trips.
For each person, answer these questions:
1. Which nationality are they talking about?
2. What’s the quirk about?
part two
GET TO KNOW YOURSELF
Do the poll below. Learn about your preferences in 18 different cultural dimentions.
PEOPLE AROUND US
Use the poll above to describe some people you interact with. How similar or different are they to you?
COMMENTS
Share your views and experience here.
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