1. Workshop on Cultural Sensitivity 25 July 2003 Presented by Elizabeth Exposto Office of the President Media Relations Advisor

2. Introduction Know your counterpart Background knowledge Reality sensitivity Political sensitivity Right Attitude Belonging Encouragement Language Body language Dress code Appropriate behaviour Resolving problems Plan together, work together Parting thoughts Conclusion

3. Know your counterpart Know their name Ask about their families Listen to their history, their struggle, in particular 1999 Know their cultural roots

4. Background knowledge Crucial that advisor possesses sound knowledge of Timor-Leste’s history, in particular its recent history as this may affect their working patterns/abilities Be aware of important religious and historical dates, events etc. Be aware of existing different ethno-linguistic groups

5. Reality Sensitivity Appreciate the difficult conditions that Timorese are experiencing & how this affects their working pattern Financial Trauma Health/Nutrition Family situation Social/ Cultural transitions Unreliable transport system

6. Political sensitivity Refrain from getting involved in local politics Always maintain a neutral position Don’t bring your differences to the Timorese

7. Right Attitude Don’t come with a “know it all attitude” Be prepared to learn from your counterpart Respect them and treat them as equals Show commitment Be patient Never promise what you cannot deliver Must be flexible

8. Belonging Make them feel that they belong, that they are part of the team Always use the word ‘we” rather than “you” or “I’ Acknowledge and praise work well done Always explain any changes made Be supportive of them and other staff

9. Encouragement Encourage them to take initiatives Encourage them to take the leading role If they make mistakes, try again Always maintain an open line of communication Encourage their feedback, input Encourage them to attend and participate in meetings

10. Language Make an effort to learn Tetun Use polite forms (“ita”, not “o”) Speak softly Avoid being too direct

11. Body language Always be humble Always smile No hands on hips Don’t put hands in pockets Don’t cross your arms Don’t stare Don’t look out of the corner of your eyes

12. Dress code Dress to suit the institution you work in Advisors are considered to be professional so dress accordingly

13. Appropriate Behaviour Advisors must always set an example not just by words but also by deeds Practice what you preach Be honest

14. Resolving problems Face the problem and try to resolve it immediately Don’t raise your voice in front of other staff Be frank and put your issue on the table Always explain the bigger picture Don’t assume that they don’t know Share responsibility for mistakes

15. Plan together, Work together Need to create a structured working environment  Collaborate on a work plan in a language understood by the counterpart  Have regular meetings  Regular pre-briefings and de-briefings  Celebrate achievements together Need to establish clear rules, guidelines, policies together

16. Parting thoughts Learn from your counterpart Know your role as the adviser Be patient, you may have to repeat many times Be able to let go Pre-briefing De-briefing

17. Conclusion Remember the key to success is the ability to transfer your knowledge. You can do this by remembering CO-PAT Communication Commitment Patience