Unpacking Cross-Cultural Collaboration with Rhia Newton

In this episode, Dr. Bobbi Wegner sits down with Rhia Newton, the VP of Learning and Development at RAPP, to delve into the complexities of cross-cultural collaboration and the hidden biases that can impact team dynamics. Discover the actionable insights and real-world strategies Rhia employs to foster true collaboration within global teams and turn cultural differences into strengths.

Rhia Newton, the Vice President of Learning and Development at RAPP, has amassed over two decades of experience in the global marketing industry. With professional undertakings spanning seven countries, Rhia excels in fostering collaboration, building effective training programs, and addressing the diverse needs of global teams. She is renowned for crafting development initiatives that align organizational goals with cultural nuances, and her expertise in facilitating cross-cultural communication is a testament to her profound understanding of team dynamics. Rhia's innovative approach has made significant impacts, making her a standout leader in the field of learning and development.

Below are the key takeaways from this episode:

• Understanding and Managing Bias: Dr. Bobbi Wegner and Rhia Newton discussed the importance of acknowledging and understanding biases in the workplace. They emphasized that biases are a natural part of human cognition but can be managed and utilized to foster better collaboration and productivity.
• Stages of Group Development: The conversation highlighted the significance of recognizing the stages of group development—forming, storming, norming, and performing. Addressing these stages and ensuring alignment can save time and improve team effectiveness.
• Cultural Dynamics and Trust: Cultural differences significantly impact workplace relationships and productivity. For instance, task-based vs. relationship-based trust varies among cultures, and understanding these differences can enhance team dynamics and collaboration.
• Importance of Clear Communication and Assumptions: Explicitly stating assumptions and expectations helps teams navigate cultural and operational differences more effectively. It’s essential to communicate openly about different working styles and expectations.
• Practical Tools and Frameworks: Rhia Newton mentioned several tools and frameworks, such as Erin Meyer’s "Culture Map" and the "Get to Know Me" template, which can help teams understand and bridge cultural differences. These resources serve as excellent starting points for improving cross-cultural collaboration.

Today's guest, Rhia Newton, can be found online at:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rhia-newton/

Your host, Dr. Bobbi Wegner, can be found online at:

Groops: https://www.joingroops.com/

Harvard Extension School Faculty Spotlight: https://youtu.be/zwLai-lu-pk?si=GpKNhtxVvTrS3-pu

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bobbiwegner/