In a globalised world, focus on our similarities

In the commentary “Strategies for working effectively around the world” (Sept 22), the writer rightly pointed out the importance of understanding and being able to work in different cultural contexts.

This is particularly so for Singapore, which has positioned itself as a global melting pot.

Traditional images and definitions of nationalities are being shattered and Singaporeans must understand these changes to succeed in the world.

Many Singaporeans remain as well informed about Asia as the average Westerner — just think of the way many Singaporeans think Sikhs come from Bengal.

Such ignorance, particularly of one of the world’s largest emerging markets, is hardly a recipe for success in a globalised world.

While such examples underscore the need for greater cultural awareness of the world outside, we must also remember humans are more similar than they are different, particularly in business.

I remember asking a Dutch board member of a German multinational with a stake in a Japanese company what he thought was the greatest cross-border similarity in business. He replied: “The bottom line.”

As long as parties focus on their similarities, it becomes easier to work through the differences.

I think of how Tata Consultancy Services — the largest of India’s information technology companies — set up operations in China.

This quintessential Indian brand name found a way to build a business that hires around 3,000 people across China. How did it happen?

I believe once both sides understood they had the same goal, they were able to prosper.

Basically, humans want the same things: To be treated fairly, feed their families and send their children to school.

I remember asking a Nepali writer why she thought the Gurkhas made loyal soldiers when they served in foreign armies.

She said they had merely found a system that rewarded them for their abilities rather than who they were. Meritocracy transcends cultural boundaries.

I think of the case of an Italian restaurant that hired a 26-year-old European waitress recently at S$3,300 a month to do the same job as a 42-year-old Filipino working there for four years with his salary stuck at S$2,000.

It is hard to see how those who continue to do such things in the name of cultural difference and ignore universal principles of meritocracy can survive in today’s changing world.