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Adaptability to avoid conflict

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Tiago Lourenco PMP® MSc Project Manager & GDPR Expert | Creator of GDPR StepWise™| Founder - Structured PM Ltd London, Eng, United Kingdom
When working in a multicultural project, it is good practice to learn about the other person's culture and try to adapt, perhaps even 'do as they do' at times. 

In your opinion and/or experience, where do you draw the line in the different cultural adaptability scenario? Do you think it is rude to say 'no thank you' to some things?
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Rami Kaibni
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Senior Projects Manager | Field & Marten Associates New Westminster, British Columbia, Canada
Feb 07, 2024 9:28 AM
Replying to Tiago Lourenco PMP® MSc
...

Let’s go deeper then: how committed are you if some or any of a client’s traditions go against your religious beliefs, for example.

I guess what I’m trying to ask here is: is there ever a line we won’t cross in your opinion/experience?

I think that yes, there is a limit depending on your belief system and background. And a way to resolve this, as we are Project Managers with people and communication skills, is to communicate effectively while utilising your emotional intelligence so you’re not disrespecting someone else’s culture while getting your reasons across.

At the end of the day, if the client is so difficult and incapable of understanding that there are other cultures and beliefs out there, is it going to be a project we should and need to be part of? The answer is probably no.

Tiago, I guess respect goes both ways. If people expects you to be considerate of their cultural values then they should hold themselves to the same. Try to explain to them "why" in a politically correct fashion and this is all you can do quite honestly so if the client has no desire to respect your beliefs and culture then the decision will come down to you: Is it a hill to die on or you can let it go this time?
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George Freeman Thought Leader | Author | Architect| Florida, United States
Tiago,

Your principled core beliefs are a boundary line. Suppose you have made a reasonable, respectful attempt at reconciling an understanding of the concern with the client, and they persist in the behavior. In that case, I would say that the environment is unhealthy for you and advise a managed exit.
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