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Different corporate cultures around the world: everything you need to know

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🌍 What if your first day at work abroad didn’t go as planned? Discover different corporate cultures in this article.

You arrive at the office, you smile, you say hello… and then you hesitate. Should you shake hands? Use first names with your manager? Speak up in a meeting or wait to be invited to talk?
Welcome to the world of international workplace cultures. A world shaped by unwritten rules, implicit codes, and professional habits that can be very different from what you’re used to.
Today, having an international work experience on your CV is a real asset. For recruiters, it signals open-mindedness, adaptability, and the ability to thrive in multicultural environments. But in reality, international mobility can also bring stress and moments of self-doubt.

At Stud&Globe, we strongly believe that understanding local workplace culture is a key step to succeeding abroad. Here’s an overview of the major cultural differences in the professional world around the globe.

🇫🇷🇪🇸 France and Spain: close, but not identical

At first glance, working in France or Spain may seem quite similar. Both countries value teamwork, human relationships, and a friendly work atmosphere. Yet differences quickly emerge.

In France, hierarchy often remains clearly defined, even if dialogue is encouraged. In Spain, the atmosphere may feel more relaxed and warm, but managerial authority is just as respected.
A common question among students going abroad is: “Can I say what I really think?” The answer is yes… but with tact. In both cultures, indirect communication plays an important role. Tone, context, and body language matter greatly.

💼 Anglo-Saxon cultures: autonomy and accountability

Anglo-Saxon countries such as the UK, Ireland, Canada, or the United States are known for their collaborative management style and flatter hierarchies.

Managers are approachable, feedback is direct, and autonomy is strongly encouraged. But with this freedom comes responsibility: you’re expected to be proactive, efficient, and results-driven.
This way of working can be demanding, especially at the start of your career, but it is also extremely rewarding. You learn fast, gain confidence, and develop skills that are highly valued in today’s job market 🚀.

🤝 Asia: hierarchy, respect, and collective mindset

Having a professional experience in Asia often comes with a real cultural shock. In China, Japan, South Korea, or India, hierarchy is strong and respect for authority is fundamental.

In some companies, openly disagreeing with a superior — especially in public — is frowned upon. Silence in meetings doesn’t mean disinterest, but rather respect.
Despite this, many Asian companies are built on a strong collective spirit. Group success comes before individual achievement, and loyalty to the company is highly valued.

🇪🇺 Working in Europe: an underestimated diversity

It’s often assumed that working in Europe is easy because countries are geographically close. In reality, workplace cultures across Europe are highly diverse.

In Germany, precision, punctuality, and performance are central. In the Netherlands, communication is very direct, hierarchy is minimal, but honesty and commitment are essential.
These differences make Europe an exceptional learning ground for Erasmus students and young professionals on internships.
landscape in front of a company

International companies in Spain, France, and Asia

✨ What working abroad really gives you

Beyond technical skills, an international experience teaches you how to adapt, communicate more effectively, understand different perspectives, and develop true intercultural intelligence.

These are exactly the skills recruiters are looking for today — far more than just a degree.

🌍 Preparing for an international experience with Stud&Globe

At Stud&Globe, we support students and young professionals at every stage of their international journey. Understanding workplace cultures, anticipating differences, and turning culture shock into an opportunity are core parts of our approach.

Manel Gourad – 2026

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CONTACT US

Opening hours: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday to Sunday

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From Spain +34 931 59 18 57

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