What brings you to the field of international competence development?
My curiosity and the desire to help people and organizations to be successful amidst difference. I lived and worked internationally before knowing that using an intercultural competence approach would work much better and be faster in reaching the desirable outcomes. Through trial and error I learned many things, and wish I had known more at that time.
How might intercultures’ customers find you unique?
I have industry experience in working interculturally; I have been there, I know the pains and challenges, I am empathetic and can offer examples of what worked for me and what didn’t. I am trilingual (English, Spanish and Portuguese) and can deliver trainings in the language that is most comfortable for my clients. I connect well with the people I interact with, I am open, and I try to inspire through positive energy and empowerment.
What do you like about working with intercultures?
intercultures is a great place to work; where people are the most important asset. Every time I have an interaction with one of my colleagues, I feel like I learned something new. There is flexibility and respect for the consultants’ way of working, and enough guidance to make sure we meet the clients’ needs. I like that there is a learning orientation, where research is valued.
In a global context – why do you think is your work – and our work together important?
I feel that now more than ever we need to go beyond pointing to cultural differences and more into intercultural competence, understanding that it is a process and it needs practice. We also need to be mindful about what we are bringing to each intercultural encounter. We have a choice how we show up every day, if we just do what we have always done or mindfully discern what is best in each situation.
What is the special market situation in Mexico?
Mexico’s history has always been filled with challenges, it is a growing country that has not yet found its place in the world. Mexico’s economy is intricately tied to that of the U.S.A., and given the uncertainty reigning in our Northern neighbor, there has been a slowing of the economy. However, there are many untapped opportunities: qualified labor, incentives for companies to set up in the country, a young and hard working population, and a growing market.