Different Work Styles

Before I started my new job, I didn’t know that I would be working so closely with another employee of the company. I was used to a lot of autonomy in my last job, and I have always been self-directed. I didn’t need close supervision and the boss never had to worry about me slacking off. To tell the truth, I was a little apprehensive about working in a team after having had so much independence. To my surprise, though, I liked the collaborative environment and I think I actually do better work because of it.

Of the two of us, Delilah is the creative one. While I’m a little adverse to risk, Delilah is always challenging the status quo. She often has good ideas, and because I’m pretty resourceful, we often find a way to put those ideas to work. Delilah has great follow-through, too, and I never need to worry that things will fall through the cracks.

I think the key to our success in working together is that neither one of us tries to exercise authority over the other. We respect each other’s abilities and we know when to take charge and when to back off. If you had told me a year ago that I would be working in a team environment and enjoying it, I would have told you that you were crazy. But I guess the old saying isn’t true: You can teach an old dog new tricks.

(From ESL Podcast 312.)

· What are the advantages of working independently?

· Why are some people apprehensive about their new job?

· Does independence imply responsibility?

· How can differences in character of colleagues help with their business?

· What is essential to successful working together?

· Why isn’t an old saying true?

Do the cultural awareness quiz on Canada. Check for answers onhttp://www.kwintessential.co.uk/resources/quiz/canada/.

1. In Canada business appointments are usually made in the:

o morning;

o afternoon;

o evening.

2. Which two languages are most widely spoken in Canada:

o English and American;

o English and Canadian;

o English and French?

3. Business associates in Canada should in the first instance be address by:

o their first name only;

o their title and first name;

o their title and surname.

4. Direct eye-contact shows:

o sincerity;

o fear;

o distrust.

5. When doing business in Quebec it is a requirement by law that it be conducted in which language:

o English;

o Canadian;

o French?

6. People from Canada consider themselves to really be Americans and prefer this to being called Canadians:

o true;

o false.

7. Canadians typically find it difficult to say “no”:

o true;

o false.

8. Which of the following may be construed as a sign of weakness in Canada:

o a weak handshake;

o making direct eye contact;

o wearing gloves.

9. Business gifts should:

o be modest;

o be extravagant;

o not be given.

10. During business negotiations Canadians often talk about their families and personal life:

o true;

o false.

Unit 6. BANKING

Key Concepts

Date: 2015-12-17; view: 924