Study Case

Madeline commenced work one year ago as a new graduate for an architect. Each day the architect arrives to work up to two hours late. Madeline is always early for work and by the time the architect arrives she is always engaged in a particular project. The architect regularly interrupts Madeline and everyone else in the office and presents them with a new set of priorities for the day. Madeline confronted the architect and told him that she could not continue to work under the current circumstances. She also told him that everyone else in the office is unhappy with the regular interruptions. Conflict has now arisen between Madeline and the architect and the other staff members have been implicated.

Consider the issue/s in the abovementioned scenario. Apply a theory/model of conflict to resolve the above conflict. Discuss the implementation of the resolution and how you would evaluate.

Oliver is a successful manager for a large multinational corporation with Head Office in Australia. He has accepted an offer to work in Malaysia. Oliver is considered to have very good communication skills. On his first day in Malaysia he greets a female member of staff, looks at her directly and shakes her hand for an extended time. Oliver did not notice the discomfort of the female staff member.

Explain at least three aspects of intercultural communication competence relative to this kind of work situation. What would you as a consultant recommend to resolve this situation and how would you go about avoiding any future issues?