Cultural communication

Respect

The most important thing what we have to do as professionals is respect other cultures. We don't need to know everything about different cultures, but we can find out something specific if we need it for our work. And there are always opportunities to ask clients about something to their culture. When we have to find out something new about other cultures, it opens up new perspectives on our lives.

To avoid misunderstandings, we can discuss with the help of an interpreter. And of course, we need to understand that Finnish culture also has challenges. It could be difficult adjusting to a new environment.

Cultural differences

For example, of different cultures, the client is 50 years old and does not want to work anymore. In Finland 50 years old have at least 15 years left in their careers. We can discuss with the client and find out does client has anything meaningful to do. Probably the client has thought about where to get some income. If the client has come to a professional, we must figure out the things the client needs help with.  It is not our job to judge anyone.