1 ___________________
If you are planning to work in Australia either temporarily or permanently, you will need to familiarise yourself with the Australian work culture. Some people will find it similar to previous work environments while others may find things very strange. The type of work you do will have some influence on the atmosphere you experience, but the basic work culture is the same.
2 ___________________
2 ___________________
Australians are generally rather relaxed in life, and work. This tends to make the work environment more friendly and light-hearted than you may have experienced at home. Your work colleagues will not be impressed if you boast about your education, success and accomplishments, so don’t go around bragging to new workmates. Australians believe that your work performance should speak for itself, and that you should be a good team player. There is a strong emphasis on individual responsibility for work that is done, whether you work alone or as part of a team.
3 _________________
Punctuality is important although meetings may allow some time for informal chat before the serious business starts. Don’t be late, this is frowned on. In the same way, when a deadline is made it is important to meet it. If you take responsibility for the completion of a task in a given time, make sure you complete it and are ‘as good as your word’.
4 ___________________________
Punctuality is important although meetings may allow some time for informal chat before the serious business starts. Don’t be late, this is frowned on. In the same way, when a deadline is made it is important to meet it. If you take responsibility for the completion of a task in a given time, make sure you complete it and are ‘as good as your word’.
4 ___________________________
Many Australian companies don’t have a clear hierarchy, and you may be expected to call your manager by his given name. People tend to consider all jobs important, just different. This translates into a ‘work hard no matter what your job is” attitude. It also leads to a more collaborative style of decision making at meetings, so be prepared to express your opinion.
5 _________________
You may find it difficult that your work mates speak bluntly and are quite happy to tell people when they are not happy with something. It is sometimes hard for immigrants to adjust to the straightforward style of meetings and workplace discussions. Think of this positively – you will know what people think and not have to guess!
You may find it difficult that your work mates speak bluntly and are quite happy to tell people when they are not happy with something. It is sometimes hard for immigrants to adjust to the straightforward style of meetings and workplace discussions. Think of this positively – you will know what people think and not have to guess!
6 _________________
A common shock for overseas people working in Australia is the use of humour in most areas of life, including the workplace. Humour and jokes are part of most meetings and discussions at work. In some cultures this may be seen as unprofessional but in Australia it just part of life at work. You should not underestimate someone’s business ability just because they tell jokes!
7 _________________
A common shock for overseas people working in Australia is the use of humour in most areas of life, including the workplace. Humour and jokes are part of most meetings and discussions at work. In some cultures this may be seen as unprofessional but in Australia it just part of life at work. You should not underestimate someone’s business ability just because they tell jokes!
7 _________________
A big part of life in Australia is outside of the office. You are expected to have a life beyond the office. Don’t be a workaholic – although there are more people who work long hours than there used to be it is still regarded as a bit strange. In many workplaces it is normal to finish the week by having a drink together at a nearby pub.
8 __________________
The Australian work culture is general Australian culture but in a work setting. To best prepare yourself for work in Australia approach things with a strong work ethic, with openness to doing things differently and a sense of humour.
The Australian work culture is general Australian culture but in a work setting. To best prepare yourself for work in Australia approach things with a strong work ethic, with openness to doing things differently and a sense of humour.
