In this episode of the Global People Mobility Insights Podcast, Stefan Remhof welcomes Robert Gibson, an interculturalist and book author, to discuss the critical role of intercultural competence in global mobility. They delve into Robert’s experiences and insights on navigating cultural differences, the importance of intercultural training in the corporate world, and strategies for bridging cultural gaps to enhance global collaboration and business success.

Key Discussion Points:

• Intercultural Competence in Global Mobility: Insights into how intercultural understanding enhances global mobility initiatives, focusing on Robert Gibson’s experiences with diverse cultures and the significance of intercultural competence in international assignments.
• Bridging the Culture Gaps: A deep dive into Robert’s book, “Bridge the Culture Gaps,” exploring its toolkit for effective collaboration in a diverse global workplace and the motivation behind its creation.
• Challenges and Opportunities of Working Abroad: Discussion on the common risks, challenges, and opportunities faced by professionals in international assignments, including strategies to maximize the return on investment for both individuals and organizations.
• The Role of HR in Supporting Global Mobility: Analysis of how HR can play a pivotal role in selecting the right candidates for foreign assignments, providing pre-departure support, and ensuring successful re-entry and knowledge sharing.
• Impact of Technology and Remote Work on Global Mobility: Exploration of how technology and the shift towards remote and hybrid work models are transforming global mobility strategies and practices.

Authors:

Stefan Remhof is Managing Partner of the People Mobility Alliance and Professor of International Management at IU International University. He has profound expertise in the fields of global mobility, expat management and international assignments.

Robert Gibson has 30 years experience of global competence development in business and education. He was responsible for intercultural training and consultancy at Siemens AG for 18 years and is an Adjunct Professor at Bologna Business School. His latest book is Bridge the Culture Gaps – A toolkit for effective collaboration in the diverse, global workplace (Nicholas Brealey, 2021).