Foreign Workers

In the speed of the day – we need to consider the Values of others.

As some of our workplaces have adopted foreign workers in our environment we need to remember their upbringing has shaped their values and work behaviours.

One major challenge international workers face is adapting to new work systems and culture while striving to integrate seamlessly into their new environment. Many foreign workers bring deeply ingrained learning experiences from their home countries, which may differ significantly from our Western ways.

Initially they feel a sense of isolation in the workplace, where engaging in conversation may feel daunting and joining a conversation with others is challenging; the most one may feel comfortable with is to wave and for you to acknowledge their presence.

For these experiences we highlight the importance of creating an environment where international workers feel safe, supported, and included.

5 Strategies for Inclusivity

1 Authority

International workers approach interactions with leaders with profound respect, influenced by cultures that value authority and rules. This deep respect leads to reserved behaviour, hindering participation. They will not advocate for themselves as this is disrespectful.

To address this, leaders need to empower international workers to express themselves more freely. One approach is to adjust tone of communication to be less stern and serious, creating a more welcoming atmosphere. For example – just like engaging with an old friend.

2 Language Barrier

Foreign workers come from working backgrounds where autonomy was not encouraged and may struggle to the interactive and participatory environment. They are sensitive to others’ evaluations and doubt their ability to communicate clearly. For this, provide alternative avenues for communication- like writing an email.

3 Feedback

Foreign workers may not be familiar with the process of feedback. They have often been taught to get it right the first time.

Emphasize that feedback is a way to help them improve their work and is not a personal attack. Try, “my job here is to make you better, I see that if you tried it this way you could save 5 mins off your time.”

4 Peer Support

Foreign workers often fear being judged by their leaders if they ask questions that reveal their lack of understanding. Have them seek assistance from a peer or designate a peer mentor to help them through the unfamiliar.

5 Belonging

In Western Canada we are very independent workers while in other parts of the world are collaborative thinkers. Find a balance for them to collaborate their thoughts when they require assistance.