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HR Q&A

  • Posted: 09.07.09
  • Subject: HR Role Definition
  • Job Function: Generalist HR & Business Partnering
  • Industry: Banking & Financial Services
  • Location: Korea
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GUEST EXPERT - Sandeep Girotra: What differences have you noticed in HR in Korea in the financial services field versus in your home country of India? How has this demanded you take a different approach as an HR leader?
Answer:

Sandeep Girotra
VP HR, GE Capital Korea / Hyundai JV and HR Leader - Operations, IT, Quality & Productivity, GE Capital Asia Pacific
General Electric
Based in Seoul


The fundamentals of managing and fostering human capital are largely the same, regardless of locations. While there are similarities in that the Financial Services industries in Korea and India are very dynamic and competitive, the cultural nuances do make the operating environment different and interesting as a result. These nuances are particularly critical for someone who is new to the country. Without getting into specifics, I would say one needs to quickly understand and appreciate these differences and adapt his/her interpersonal style, as failure to do so will make one look ignorant. Especially in Asia, where first impressions are rapidly formed, you do not want to lose credibility right at the start, as it will take a long time to rebuild the lost relationships if at all possible. In fact, sometimes, you reach a point of no return.

So, be careful in the initial months - spend more time to win hearts and the minds will follow naturally enough!

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