Cross-cultural Training for Global Virtual Teams Research Paper

Cross-cultural Training for Global Virtual Teams - Research Paper Example Global virtual teams will not automatically respond to â€Å"country-specific knowledge† instead of â€Å"in-depth knowledge of interpersonal interactions† because human behavior does not consist only of culture. Pre-conceptions make it difficult for members to adjust immediately when in the actual interaction. This becomes applied stereotypes that do not always work accordingly and thus tends to frustrate members, rendering cultural orientation program as ineffective (ibid, pp.346-347). Cultural awareness training, on the other hand, is focused on the goal of learning to adjust in various situations especially those which tend to be unexpected rather than being constrained by area-specific interaction. This type of training is geared toward altering attitudes of information and the availability of alternative viewpoints when faced with unknown information and recognize it as an opportunity to familiarize with unfamiliar circumstances. Another important aspect of cultural awareness training is its acknowledgment that culture shock is a common part of adjusting to an unknown culture. This is what it aims to develop by instilling to the members the importance of developing sensitivity and acceptance to enable him to comfortably work with people whose cultures may be different from that of his own. The newcomer is also obliged to do the same and be receptive to the situation to strengthen the virtual team.