What do I need to be successful?
Key Learnings
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Prepare for living in a new country by researching language, climate, living accommodations, social norms, etc.
Minimise culture shock by investing time to experience your new cultural surroundings and understand local customs.
Know how to present yourself in any situation in order to make positive impressions that help you stand out and build stronger professional relationships.
To give an effective presentation, there are three elements that you need to keep in mind: have a presentation plan, know your audience, and engage your audience.
Effective visual aids can help the audience remember your messages.
Visuals should be an aid to the presentation – not the focal point.
Improving your professional skills in different areas (attitude, behaviour and presentation) will strengthen your level of professionalism and make more positive impressions.
Professionalism takes effort, commitment, and application.
Left unresolved, personal conflict can seriously affect your performance on the field.
Once you know your own natural response and understand the style of the other person with whom you are in conflict, you can adjust your response in such a way that leads to resolution more quickly and effectively.

Hints on how to resolve conflicts

There is no miracle way to end a conflict, but the following approach might help you settle a conflict effectively.

  • Step 1 – Set the scene
    In this step, your goal is to establish mutual respect between each other and identify the common goal of resolving the conflict and growing your relationship. It can be helpful to be in a neutral setting.
  • Step 2 – Gather information
    This is an opportunity for both sides to present their views and concerns. Remember these key points as you listen to the other person:
    • Ask the other person for his or her point of view and genuinely confirm that you respect his or her opinion.
    • Listen actively. Put your point of view aside and really listen to what the other person is saying. You will have a chance to present your view.
    • Present your view calmly and honestly. Speak assertively without being too aggressive or submissive.
    • Use “I” statements – “I feel…” “I’m frustrated because…” Do not make accusations toward the other person or place blame.
  • Step 3 – Agree on the problem
    This may sound obvious but confirming what the conflict is all about will ensure that you are working toward the same goal. People can perceive the same situation in very different ways. You may actually discover that you are frustrated about different things.
     
  • Step 4 – Brainstorm possible solutions
    Both sides should come up with possible solutions. This way, everyone involved feels like they had impact on the final outcome.
  • Step 5 – Implement the solution
    Once you come to a mutually accepted solution, be genuine in implementing it. Express that you will make a good faith effort moving forward. As long as everyone stays calm and open-minded, a resolution can happen quickly and in a way that builds relationships over time.