Guide to empowering SMEs

The aim of this research was to create a compendium of best practices in the field of cross-cultural relationships. The Conseil emploi métropole (CEM) has called upon IRIPI to provide a practical, easy-to-use guide for managers and human resource managers in small and medium-sized enterprises. This compendium of best practices is based on research that documents successful cross-cultural practices in the workplace, according to employers, Emploi-Québec advisors, consultants and immigrant employees, who usually have little time to devote to the topic of cross-cultural relationships. This guide provides a series of proven, easy-to-implement practices and strategies that can make a difference in the workplace.

Today, diversity concerns a growing number of Quebec companies. Although it is a potential source of wealth, it also poses certain challenges that require special attention by managers. Working on cross-cultural relationships, in a broader sense, tends to improve business efficiency and performance.

This guide consists of fact sheets on the major stages of job integration, from staffing to integrating new employees. In addition, some topics, such as a command of the working language, socialization, cross-cultural communication and reasonable accommodation requests, are addressed in a practical way.

To download the Guide to empowering SMEs (PDF – in French only)

Type of service: Technical support

Investigator: Frédéric Dejean

Person responsible: Ana Dalia Huesca

Funding source: Ministère du Travail, de l’Emploi et de la Solidarité sociale

Project start date: September 2014

Project end date: April 2016