I love to travel – anytime, anyplace, anywhere! And, I especially love the adventure of international travel!
Truth is, when I first hear about an international training assignment, I am overwhelmed with joy! I immediately start forming plans: I study numerous internet sites of the area I am about to visit to get my bearings. I want to be able to enjoy everything the country has to offer. Exploring cities by foot, I’ve found, is a great way to “soak-up” the local culture. Over the years, I have learned to savor the special sights, sounds, and smells of all the places I have visited. Those special moments are mental pictures that will stay with me forever.
But then I say to myself, “Wait!! I have a training course to conduct!” and all that excitement quickly turns to business. I suddenly realize how different this country’s language and culture is from my own. I wonder, “Will they even like me?” “How do they feel about Americans – especially one who was born and raised in New York City?” I’ll have to wait and see.
While traveling to my new training destination, my excitement and anticipation build. Before I know it, I am finally in front of the classroom. I think, “Okay, I am ready to ‘knock their socks off,’” when suddenly I am hit by a very awkward feeling of nervousness – just as if it was the first day I ever conducted a training course. Wow!!
Yet, I can honestly say that I love international training as much as I love international travel – despite my nerves. I am glad to say that all my international assignments have been a tremendous success.
What are some of my “tricks of the trade?” Here are four tips that you can pack in your suitcase whenever you receive an international training assignment:
- If you’re using puzzles, games, or icebreakers, avoid using any Americanized ones. It is very easy to find appropriate activities that your audience will understand and appreciate through the internet. Try a website called www. uselessfacts.net. I also like to check out my copy of “Ralph’s Ultimate Collection Brainteasers, Puzzles & Trivia” that I can either use as is, or adapt to a specific country’s culture.
- Avoid using slang. We Americans are notorious for speaking a whole different language, right dude?
- Speak slower and enunciate your words. Even if your audience understands English, chances are it is their second language (ESL). It may take longer for some – or all – of the participants to process what you are saying.
- Pay close attention to non-verbal cues and body language. Checking for understanding is always important, but it is even more so with an ESL audience.
These four tips have worked for me every time. However, my biggest lesson learned is that if I stay true to who I am and show a genuine compassion for my audience, then it does not matter if I am training people in my home-town or around the world. You build the same positive learning environment, because people are people no matter where you go.
As a matter of fact, looking back at my overseas experiences, I have built some stronger friendships than in any American workshop. Those moments – and people – I will always treasure.
Bon Voyage!!! I have another international training to do and a new country to explore!
Ron
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