Localization: Training and Development in Poland

by Jen Weaver  

As we continue our journey around the world, let's explore some common cultural facts about Poles and their expectations when it comes to training and development.

Test Your Knowledge of Polish Culture

1. The name "Poland" is a descriptor of the country's geography. Does it mean:
1. The borderlands?
2. The hill country?
3. The flatlands?
2. True or False? Polish businesspeople often speak German.
3. True or False? Prussian is also a common language in Poland.

Quick Tips for Training & Development in Poland¹:

• Poland is a male-dominated society. Female trainers may find it hard to be taken seriously, even though women have been advancing into more predominant roles in recent years.
• Polish is the official language, but many businesspeople speak German as well as English. Clarify language preferences before beginning your class. Just because most Poles can understand English does not mean it's the preferred language for training.
• Catholicism is a highly predominant religion, with less than two percent of the population identifying with another religion. Approximately ten percent of Poles describe themselves as "nonreligious."
• Security is a high priority for Poles, and they are determined to maintain their freedom after a difficult history with both Russia and Germany. As such, Poles tend to prize individualism and the contributions a person can make in larger groups as a whole.
• Poland is a hierarchical society, and there is a tendency for decisions to be made at a higher level or by consensus of "privileged" individuals.
• Truth is a combination of facts along with subjective feelings and personal relationships. An individual's religious ideologies also often come into play when making decisions.
• Business appointments start and end on time.
• Many Poles opt to not take a lunch break and to work straight through the day. "Work lunches" are often scheduled for around 4 or 5 p.m., and employees do not go back to work after taking lunch. Keep this in mind and clarify time expectations when determining your class schedule.
• A local Polish advocate will go far when establishing new business relationships. Try to identify a champion of your initiative within the company or someone closely associated and respected through corporate connections.
• Poles tend to be more soft-spoken than North Americans, and business attire is conservative professional.

Knowledge Answer from Above: 

1. (c) Poland is mostly flat.
2. True. Not much of a surprise, considering Poland's location along the German border.
3. False. While once used, Prussian became extinct in the 1700's.
    

References:

 

¹Morrison, Terri, & Conaway, Wayne A. (2006). Kiss, bow, or shake hands (2nd ed.). Avon: Adams Media.

 

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Developing international training and development materials? Contact Jen at Carmazzi Global Solutions. And if you love Jen's articles, check out her new Localization mini courses.