Canada is one of the most eclectic and diverse countries in the world, it is also one flourishing with cutting edge businesses. So when establishing a new business how much should one’s culture or those of potential customers influence it?

 

I am a young Sri Lankan, Tamil female born and raised outside of my native country but keen to excel in the entrepreneurial world. Even though I have collectively spent barely 2 months of my life in Sri Lanka, I am still very much a part of its culture and traditions. So if I were to embark on establishing a start-up company would it be best to include my Sri Lankan, Tamil practices into it? Would I profit more if I addressed the masses and neglected my roots? Would it be disrespectful to my heritage? What if my target demographic were of a completely different origin, and I adopted practices of that culture instead such that I solely reaped the business benefits? Some may think the solution would be to adopt a more neutral culture ie: ‘Canadian’. But Canada is made up of its ethnic diversity, so then one can pose the question: what does it really mean to be Canadian, culturally?

 

Culture is a large, multi-layered concept. Issues can be delved into regarding the varieties of practices, rituals and teachings. This blog is not intended to dissect the differences but find what is common.

 

At the core of any culture is a set of values, which universally reflect mutual respect and love for one another. Despite differences culture and heritage is a lovely thing to embrace, even if you were not born into it. One’s identity with their culture is their prerogative. The beauty of Canada is that we are a collage of the world’s ethnicities and if there is another that we would like to adopt, we most certainly can! The key is respect, regardless of culture, heritage, money or business. Respect is something that is earned and is a right for every individual. It is the common ingredient in both business and culture. Don’t lose yourself for the sake of a business; customers do want to relate to you and you to them, so flexibility is key. You don’t need to adapt to each culturally different scenario, because: respect is the universal culture. It is what will bring customers to you, help them relate to you as a business and hopefully as a result help you reap business benefits.

 

So for your ‘business cake’ recipe, raid the spice rack and sprinkle in any combination of cultures. Stack it high and top with fluffy, whipped frosting. Then sink your teeth into your company’s sweet foundation.