S1/E25: #Cross-Cultural Networking - What Expats Need to Know with Sven Horak

Show notes

Cross-cultural networks are like the 'secret sauce' for success in today’s global world. Imagine a network where people from different cultures come together, bringing unique perspectives, ideas, and solutions. These networks drive innovation, help us understand diverse markets, and open doors to new opportunities. However, in many cultures, there are closed or fixed networks that can be nearly impossible to access as an outsider. These networks are often built on long-standing traditions, deep family ties, or shared cultural experiences, and they play a major role in how people connect, collaborate, and trust each other.

For expats, these closed or fixed cultural networks can be both challenging and isolating. Moving to a new country, expats often look to build local relationships and integrate into the community. But when local networks are tightly bound by shared histories, traditions, or family ties, it can be nearly impossible for an outsider to break in. This can make expats feel disconnected or even excluded, adding to the culture shock.

Without access to these networks, expats may struggle to find the informal support or social connections that locals rely on—like insider job tips, housing leads, or help with navigating bureaucratic systems. Instead, many expats end up forming their own communities with other expats, which can provide support but may also limit their immersion in the local culture.

On the upside, awareness of these dynamics can help expats adjust expectations, and they might find ways to connect through open, inclusive networks, like hobby groups, language exchanges, or multicultural communities. These networks help expats gain cultural insights and foster meaningful connections without pushing against the boundaries of more exclusive local groups.

Culture Chat In this episode, Frauke and Marie-Christine welcome Dr. Sven Horak, Professor of Management at The Peter J. Tobin College of Business at St. John's University in NYC. The duo discusses with Sven how fixed networks can make adaptation to the new environment harder, but understanding and working around these cultural boundaries can lead to a more authentic and respectful expat experience.

In this episode, you’ll gain valuable insights into:

• why cross-cultural networks matter
• the differences between effective and instrumental networking
• the challenges and limitations of cultural boundaries
• how Expats can understand and work around these boundaries

Our Guest Sven Horak: Sven is an expert in Global Management, International HR, and Leadership. His research focuses on networking and relationship-building in a global context. Through his work, Sven explores the underlying structures, motivations, and principles of networking within and across countries, providing valuable insights that help managers expand their global networking capabilities.

Book: „Informal Networks in International Business”, Sven Horak (Ed.). https://www.emerald.com/insight/publication/doi/10.1108/9781839828782 Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Informal-Networks-International-Business/dp/183982879X

Connect with Sven https://www.linkedin.com/in/sven-horak-00899770

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