Diversity in companies, diversity in schools, diversity in various business fields, there’s diversity everywhere. There’s been no other time where diversity has been so in demand and as such it’s very much supported in this day and age. Nonetheless, every place of business is unique with its own atmosphere, weather, cuisine, people, and mentality, and that should be respected. We’re sure that you will recognise the differences between your home country and your Erasmus+ or Turing Scheme destination during your internship. At your destination, there’s an excellent opportunity to get to know various people, to acquire new skills and to see things from a different perspective. As we want you to benefit from your Erasmus+ or Turing Scheme experience as much as possible, and we want you to avoid making mistakes, here’s an insight into different work cultures in different places. Get yourself prepared!
Disclaimer: Please keep in mind that we want to give you a short overview about different work cultures at a couple of Erasmus+ and Turing Scheme destinations we know about or we’re sure most people will agree on. Don’t forget that there are always exceptions and under no circumstances do we want to cast a specific country in a negative way. As a long-standing travel agency, TravelEdventures is proud to provide work placements in different destinations and we always encourage people to get to know new places and people.
As Austrians, we can definitely confirm that we appreciate punctuality and structure. We tend to plan everything beforehand to prevent any delays as well as unwanted surprises. You will also notice at your Erasmus+ or Turing Scheme destination that we like to set deadlines for specific assignments to be handed in. Don’t worry, your managers or colleagues will be there for your questions, happy to assist you.
In addition to that, the Austrians have a good labour law, that helps to outline all rights and obligations of employers and employees. If the law states to have a five-weeks-vacation per year, every company will follow the regulation strictly – no ifs or buts!
However, it depends on your company and whether or not they still stick to the old-school hierarchies and want you to follow them or if you are at a young enterprise with a different work culture. In both cases you will acquire new skills.
The magnificent country in Southern Europe is not only one of the most popular Erasmus+ destinations but will also help you to get to enjoy all the positive, beautiful elements of life. The Spanish people have a reputation of having a comfy life, appreciate easiness and don’t want to rush anything. Most of the Spanish people agree that Siesta, the famous afternoon-nap, is a must do!
It is no secret that the Spaniards are very temperamental, and they can be a bit loud (in comparison to other countries in Europe), this may happen at business meetings too. So, don’t be surprised, it’s part of the culture.
However, at your Erasmus+ or Turing Scheme destination in Spain you will acknowledge that hierarchy is still high-rated and should be respected.
We all know the USA from Hollywood and the numerous movies, right? The Americans are very friendly, polite, and like to compliment. So, don’t be surprised if the cashier tells you that she likes your T-Shirt or compliments your nice hair.
In comparison to European countries, the people in the US have quite long working hours and they really work hard as their professional life is an important part of their lifestyle. This will be the perfect chance to encounter that type of work culture that will provide you a lot of information during your Turing Scheme internship.
In general, the work environment there is informal and there is not really a hierarchy within a company, but this doesn’t mean that work is not taken seriously. Have you already travelled to the US? Perhaps you can tell us more about the work culture?
As Norway is home to plenty of people from different countries, the locals tend to be more open-minded and like internationality. You will also notice that Norwegians speak very good English which will help you to communicate if you can’t speak Norwegian.
It may be that you won’t be able to distinguish the manager from the rest of the employees at your Erasmus+ or Turing Scheme internship due to the flat hierarchy within the Norwegian companies. An interesting work culture, isn’t it?
However, people tend to be more distant in comparison to other countries in the South of Europe. You’ll find at the supermarket there will be no small talk or chatting about random stuff.
Can you see the differences between Erasmus+ and Turing Scheme destinations or do you know any country-specific information you want to tell us about? Comment below and let us share your opinions on our website!
In conclusion, every part of the world is unique, and we love that. We should travel more, learn more, and speak more to be able to embrace the differences as well as the things we have in common. Your Erasmus+ or Turing Scheme internship is the perfect way to experience different work cultures that will allow you to head back home with more knowledge and understanding.
We want to remind you that we are always here for you if you have any questions regarding Erasmus+ and the new Turing Scheme. Also, don’t forget to check our two informative blogs about Erasmus+ Project Execution and Erasmus+ Funding. For more information about Russian work and life experience, read this blog.