By Carmen Gütlhuber, Corporate Paralegal
One of the things I’ve always enjoyed most is learning how people think.
Throughout my career, I’ve been drawn to culture and understanding what helps people work well together. That’s why I was excited to participate in the Culture Map assessment.
For me, it wasn’t simply about discovering where I fit on a chart. It was about understanding how I can become a better teammate.
One belief has guided me for years: Good communication is the foundation for a positive working environment in everyday work life.
When people communicate openly and understand one another, trust naturally follows. Without that foundation, even small cultural differences can create unnecessary misunderstandings.
Working in a global company has shown me just how many different ways people communicate.
I’m both German and American, and that perspective has helped me recognize that there isn’t one correct way to work. Some cultures prefer to gather every fact before making a decision. Others are comfortable starting quickly and adjusting along the way. Some value more relationship-building before a meeting, while others prefer getting straight to the agenda.
Those differences aren’t obstacles.
They’re opportunities to understand one another better.
The Culture Map gave me language to recognize those differences and helped reinforce something I already believed: The more aware we are of ourselves, the more effectively we can adapt to others.
For me, adaptability simply means asking, “What does this person need so we can work successfully together?”
Sometimes that means changing how I communicate. Sometimes it means slowing down and listening more carefully. Sometimes it means stepping back so someone else can contribute.
Those small adjustments build stronger relationships over time.
One of our greatest strengths is the diversity of experiences our employees bring from around the world. Every culture contributes different ideas and approaches, as well as different ways of solving problems. When we’re open to learning from one another, everyone benefits.
Building cultural awareness isn’t about becoming an expert in every country; it’s about remaining curious and willing to learn.
That’s how stronger teams, and stronger organizations, are built.