Navigating Cultures in the Global Workplace
Workshop Series
This interactive workshop series for staff members aims to provide tools for greater self-awareness and practical knowledge to increase intercultural sensitivity and effective communication in the workplace. The small group workshops will be held online, involving a combination of live presentations, discussions, and interactive activities. All participants will be provided with an online, personal assessment — the Cultural Orientations Indicator® (COI) — and will have access to an array of professional development materials.
At the end of the workshop series, participants will be able to:
- define the concept of culture and understand its levels and dimensions
- understand and apply learnings from the Cultural Orientations Indicator® (COI) and the Cultural Navigator® to work situations
- reflect more structurally and critically on past and current intercultural workplace experiences
- use tools and strategies provided to reduce intercultural conflict and misunderstanding
Cost
The workshop is free to staff members selected for the program. However, if a participant does not attend all five sessions of the workshop, we will request a $65 reimbursement from the participant’s home department to cover the cost of the individual’s (COI)® assessment.
Eligibility
The workshop series is open to all benefits-eligible Northwestern staff members, who have been employed by the university for at least six months. Preference will be given to applicants with some experience working with culturally diverse constituents and who demonstrate the ability to critically reflect on their own experiences.
Testimonials
"Janka and Jennifer are super supportive, dynamic, and caring individuals. They led each session with enthusiasm and took time to listen to us and give feedback on assignments. They complement each other and are a testament to how intercultural work can improve our working relationships. I appreciated their honesty and transparency when discussing sensitive topics. Thank you!"
Fall Quarter 2024 Participant
"I've been a part of many intercultural/DEI workshops and this was the most impactful. Enjoyed the assessment and dialogue within the group. The best part was getting to know and learn from people across the world. Loved how open and supportive everyone was. Very well done. Thank you!!" Spring Quarter 2023 Participant (*special workshop series that included participants from Germany and South Africa)
“I was consistently impressed by the balance of discussion, videos, breakout rooms, and activities. It never felt stale or boring, even when going one by one through the COI categories. I really appreciate that you made an effort to mix it up all the time. It is difficult to structure a five week workshop so that it is so engaging, and you two did an incredible job. Some of the best facilitators I've ever seen!” Winter Quarter 2022 Participant
“A great professional development opportunity that will keep on giving.” Winter Quarter 2021 Participant
“This was the most well balanced professional development workshop in which I've engaged (virtual or other). I felt the homework assignments were SPOT ON and although they required outside work, it was time well-spent. Clearly a lot of thought and intent went into this course, its work and requirements. Kudos.” Winter Quarter 2021 Participant
Fall Quarter 2024 Workshop Participants