Chris Smit
RedApple 7 Partner for Cultural Awareness
Makes companies and organizations more aware of cultural diversity. In business, the impact of cultural differences are still under-estimated. We talk a lot about globalization. The world seems to be getting smaller, and yet we all bear the mark of the culture in which we grew up. This often leads to misunderstandings that are detrimental to your business. More attention to cultural diversity should be a top priority for companies and organizations.
Chris puts you on track to efficiently deal with the cultural differences. Since 1993 he has advised thousands of people from more than 100 different nationalities. His work has taken him to more than 45 countries. He is a passionate and enthusiastic speaker with extensive experience in coaching and managing staff at all levels
The World in Your Pocket
Chris was born in Amsterdam. He has lived in three different countries (US, Netherlands, and Belgium, where he still lives).
As a marketing and sales consultant for the Dutch airline KLM, he traveled the world. Meanwhile, he earned a Master’s degree in psychology at the University of Amsterdam. In 2007, he founded the company Culture Matters. Chris helps companies working in an international context to become aware and deal with cultural differences.
The C of Complex
Culture is a complex concept. You get your cultural identity as you grow up, whether you like it or not. This cultural footprint stems from learned behavior. Why is a German always on time? Why is a Frenchman’s lunch break so important? Why is it difficult for Indians to say no? Why are Dutch so much more direct and candid than Belgians?
They might be stereotypes to you, but they are recognizable and there is always a grain of truth. How true is that truth, and how can I use these cultural differences as a lever? How can I avoid cultural diversity as being an obstacle? That is what cultural competence is all about.
The C of Competence
How do you acquire that cultural competence? “For me, cultural competence is that you have the ability to effectively deal with people of different cultural and socio-economic backgrounds,” says Chris. You only learn this skill by trial and error. It’s a long process, in which a great sense of nuance is needed. Chris’s insights are an eye-opener to see a different perspective of our globalized world.
The C of Concrete
Companies working on their cultural competence reap the rewards, both in time & money. Cultural competence ensures a more focused management, effective production, and more humane HR policies.
Chris is an inspirational speaker and a seasoned consultant. He knows how to translate the concept of cultural diversity in a clear and compelling story and solution. His great expertise is a source of inspiration for a very diverse audience.
Chris Smit has several international publications in his name and a frequent (Keynote) speaker at international business events.
He has been running a Podcast on Culture Matters for the last 4 years. It’s available for free in the iTunes store.
Chris also spoke at TEDx (watch video here)
If you’re looking for an Engaging, Exciting, and Interactive speaker on the subject of Cultural Diversity and Awareness and Organizational Culture you came to the right place.
Chris has spoken at hundreds of events to thousands of people on the subject of Cultural Diversity & Cultural Competence.
What Others Say About Chris:
“Very Interactive and Engaging”
“In little time he knew how to get the audience inspired and connected to his story”
“His ability to make large groups of participants quickly and adequately aware of the huge impact of cultural differences is excellent”
“Chris is a dedicated and inspirational professional”
His presentation can cover specific topics or countries, or generally on Cultural.
Chris is fluent in Dutch, English, and Spanish