Author Ian McMaster talks about common challenges international teams face and how taking time to reflect on critical incidents can improve teamwork. This episode is helpful whether you are part of an international teaching team or seek ways to develop better teamwork with your teenage or adult learners.
KEY TALKING POINTS
Common Challenges in Teams
Language, culture, and remoteness are often perceived as major challenges. Ian emphasises that these factors might be overrated and explores deeper dimensions.
Reflection on Attitudes
Ian suggests that individuals should reflect on their attitudes, assumptions, and adaptability. He highlights the importance of not jumping to conclusions and being flexible in communication styles.
Intro to Critical Incidents
Critical incidents are situations where interpersonal reactions, conflicts, or misunderstandings occur. Ian clarifies that "critical" refers to the need for critical thinking to reflect on the situation.
Example 1: Trust in Teams
A project leader constantly checks in on a team member's progress. Ian highlights how this situation could lead to misunderstandings and highlights the importance of discussing work preferences and expectations.
Example 2: Quality vs. Deadlines
A team member tasked with a marketing proposal faces a conflict with the team leader's deadline priorities. Communication and expectation-setting are crucial in avoiding blame and unexpected conflicts.
REFERENCES
Dignen, B. and McMaster, I. (2023) Trainingsbuch Business English: Kommunikation und Zusammenarbeit in Internationalen Team. Freiburg: Haufe Group
ABOUT
Ian McMaster is a business communications consultant, journalist and author. Originally from England, Ian has lived in Munich for 35 years and is a regular participant and speaker at international language-learning conferences.
Ian was editor-in-chief of the English-language magazine “Spotlight” in the 1990s and then editor-in-chief of the business communication magazine “Business Spotlight” from 2001 to 2021. Both magazines are published by ZEIT SPRACHEN, part of the ZEIT publishing group.
Ian’s latest book, with co-author Bob Dignen, is “Trainingsbuch Business English: Kommunikation und Zusammenarbeit in internationalen Teams”, published by Haufe. Despite its German title, the book is completely in English and looks at how people of all languages can communicate and work together better in international teams. Follow Ian's work on LinkedIn here.
LinkedIn Ian McMaster and Bob Dignen
TRANSCRIPT
Watch with closed captions.
SUPPORT
Say thanks with coffee.
CREDITS
Producer Laura Wilkes
Editor Haven Tsang
Thanks to Ian McMaster, and Haufe Group for sending a copy of the book.
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