Workshop on Cultural Sensitivity

25 July 2003

Presented by

Elizabeth ExpostoOffice of the President

Media Relations Advisor

Introduction

Know your counterpart Background knowledge Reality sensitivity Political sensitivity Right Attitude Belonging Encouragement Language Body language Dress code Appropriate behaviour Resolving problems Plan together, work together Parting thoughts Conclusion

Know your counterpart

Know their name Ask about their families Listen to their history, their struggle, in

particular 1999 Know their cultural roots

Background knowledge

Crucial that advisor possesses sound knowledge of Timor-Leste’s history, in particular its recent history as this may affect their working patterns/abilities

Be aware of important religious and historical dates, events etc.

Be aware of existing different ethno-linguistic groups

Reality Sensitivity

Appreciate the difficult conditions that Timorese are experiencing & how this affects their working pattern

Financial Trauma Health/Nutrition Family situation Social/ Cultural transitions Unreliable transport system

Political sensitivity

Refrain from getting involved in local politics Always maintain a neutral position Don’t bring your differences to the Timorese

Right Attitude

Don’t come with a “know it all attitude” Be prepared to learn from your counterpart Respect them and treat them as equals Show commitment Be patient Never promise what you cannot deliver Must be flexible

Belonging

Make them feel that they belong, that they are part of the team

Always use the word ‘we” rather than “you” or “I’

Acknowledge and praise work well done Always explain any changes made Be supportive of them and other staff

Encouragement

Encourage them to take initiatives Encourage them to take the leading role If they make mistakes, try again Always maintain an open line of

communication Encourage their feedback, input Encourage them to attend and participate in

meetings

Language

Make an effort to learn Tetun Use polite forms (“ita”, not “o”) Speak softly Avoid being too direct

Body language

Always be humble Always smile No hands on hips Don’t put hands in pockets Don’t cross your arms Don’t stare Don’t look out of the corner of your eyes

Dress code

Dress to suit the institution you work in Advisors are considered to be professional

so dress accordingly

Appropriate Behaviour

Advisors must always set an example not just by words but also by deeds

Practice what you preach Be honest

Resolving problems

Face the problem and try to resolve it immediately

Don’t raise your voice in front of other staff Be frank and put your issue on the table Always explain the bigger picture Don’t assume that they don’t know Share responsibility for mistakes

Plan together, Work together

Need to create a structured working environment

Collaborate on a work plan in a language understood by the counterpart

Have regular meetings Regular pre-briefings and de-briefings Celebrate achievements together

Need to establish clear rules, guidelines, policies together

Parting thoughts

Learn from your counterpart Know your role as the adviser Be patient, you may have to repeat many

times Be able to let go Pre-briefing De-briefing

Conclusion

Remember the key to success is the ability to transfer your knowledge.

You can do this by remembering CO-PAT

Communication Commitment Patience