19 Mar Making the Most of ASIS Europe – Understanding Different Perspectives

At ASIS Europe, bringing together people from a wide range of backgrounds is more than just a feature. It’s a powerful way to enrich learning. When participants with different cultures, experiences, and ways of thinking come together, they offer perspectives that challenge assumptions, spark new ideas, and deepen understanding. By staying open and curious, we create an environment where everyone can learn not just from the content, but from each other.

Language & Communication

• Fluency is not a measure of competence. Someone may struggle to find the right English words yet have decades of deep professional experience.
  Be patient and give people time to express themselves; a supportive environment helps everyone contribute meaningfully.
• An accent is a sign of multilingualism, not a barrier to expertise. Focus on the message, not the accent.
• Some participants prefer listening first, especially in a second language.
  Their silence is not a lack of ideas, they may simply need more time or a smaller setting to feel comfortable.

Greetings, Proximity & Cultural Norms

• People greet differently depending on their culture. Some may offer a hug or a firm handshake, others a light one, a nod, a bow, or no physical contact at all.
• Avoid interpreting behaviour through your own cultural lens. What feels distant or reserved to one person may feel polite and respectful to another.

Food & Drink Choices

• Never pressure anyone to explain why they are not eating or drinking something.
  People may have personal, cultural, spiritual, medical, or dietary reasons, and they should not feel obligated to justify their choices.

Morning vs. Evening Energy Levels

• People have different natural energy rhythms. Some are at their best early in the morning, while others think more clearly and engage more actively later in the day. A slow start or quiet presence early on doesn’t mean someone is disengaged, it may simply reflect their natural pace.

Different Interaction Styles (Introvert & Extravert)

• People engage in different ways. Some are energised by large group discussions and networking, while others prefer smaller conversations or time to reflect before contributing.
  Neither approach is better—both bring value. Giving space for different interaction styles helps ensure more balanced and meaningful exchanges.