Navigating Identity, Culture and Feedback in Engineering Teams

Tech Talent Talk

In this thought-provoking episode, we explore the intersection of identity, culture, and feedback in engineering teams. Our guest shares her incredible journey relocating across countries (Ukraine to Poland to the Netherlands), discovering a new sense of self, belonging, and cultural identity.

This episode is packed with practical and emotional insights, offering a unique lens on:

👉 Identity shifts through relocation: How moving across borders shapes personal and professional perspectives.

👉 Cultural dynamics in feedback: Why understanding cultural differences is critical in engineering teams, and how to adapt feedback for growth rather than criticism.

👉 Overcoming imposter syndrome: Advice for newcomers in tech adjusting to new environments and building meaningful connections.

👉 Feedback challenges: How to navigate giving upward feedback, breaking cultural barriers, and creating an open feedback culture.

Drawing from her Culture Map workshop, our guest shares real-world examples of how different cultures approach feedback—from the directness of Ukrainians to the subtlety of Japanese teams—and how these differences impact team dynamics and productivity.

We’ll also explore:

✅ The role of feedback in re-establishing boundaries and fostering trust.

✅ How to balance asking questions and making assumptions to uncover hidden meanings in multicultural communication.

✅ The importance of leading with empathy and curiosity in diverse teams.

🎙 Meet Our Guest:

Alisa has over 12 years of experience in the IT industry, specializing in technical project management, agile development, and process improvement. She’s passionate about creating innovative, user-friendly solutions that elevate the online experience.

In November 2024, Alisa delivered a talk on Feedback for Intercultural Teams, which highlighted the importance of understanding each other in diverse environments. Outside of work, Alisa is an avid traveler who has visited 15+ countries!

🎧 Tune in to learn actionable strategies for embracing cultural diversity, improving feedback practices, and thriving in today’s global tech landscape!

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