Other countries other manners. This also applies to dealing with time. We’ll tell you how you can achieve your goals even if your counterpart treats deadlines, punctuality and the sequence of tasks differently.
Tips on how to deal with a loose time orientation
- Don’t expect 100% punctuality from others!
- Define together with your colleagues / business partners which punctuality requirements exist! For example, is it clear to everyone what a deadline is and how much delay is tolerated? If not: talk about it! This is the only way you can achieve shared working standards!
- Make use of time buffers from the start [which you keep to yourself]!
- Be aware that “I don’t have time” is considered as a slap in the face in many countries. Your counterparts may not even be able to explain an answer like that!
- If you really need something, do a follow-up and clarify the urgency and importance of your concern by exposing the constraints you are in!
- Remember: The word “deadline” simply does not exist in many languages.
- If other people in your presence are doing several things at the same time, it does not mean that they are not paying attention. It is normal for people with a loose time orientation to take in more than one important information at a time.
Tips on how to deal with a tight time orientation
- Being present 5 minutes before an agreed appointment creates trust among your counterparts.
- Please let others know well in advance if you cannot meet an agreed appointment!
- First let your counterpart finish a thing that has already started! After that, you will surely have his or her full attention.
- Time is money! So try to get to the point faster!
