My business internship in Vietnam
Nick, who studies Business and Management at the University of Waikato, shares the lessons that he has learned in marketing and strategy at his CRCC Asia Internship in Vietnam:
Written by Nick Badger
I’ve experienced an amazing full scale immersion into the culture of Vietnam and work life in Ho Chi Minh City. I am currently completing a business internship for a phenomenal host company that has been a game-changing pioneer in news and entertainment for youth culture in Vietnam. They have a massive reach on social media (including more than 16.7 million on Facebook) and have a passion to build community among the youth of Vietnam. From launching a game changing music sharing platform in 2001 that redefined the way music content was shared, to building a world class TV network, to now shifting their entire operation to digital, it’s a great company and they are poised to grow.
Nick and his colleagues shared a Christmas dinner together
“There is a slight language barrier which can be tricky to navigate at times, but I am learning Cultural Agility in the midst of it.”
My intern abroad experience has been in the marketing department, collaborating on strategy and how to present value proposition to the market. I am learning a ton, and working with incredibly kind, diligent and hardworking people who are passionate about what they do. There is a slight language barrier which can be tricky to navigate at times, but I am learning Cultural Agility in the midst of it.
Another valuable skill I am learning in this work place, is how to “have a go.” For example, when developing and sharing ideas for strategy, there is no such thing as a ‘wrong way’ ‘to approach it. The creative conflict that happens when we share, refine, redefine, rework and reword our ideas and strategies is how we end up at the best result. We need each other to challenge and add value to our ideas.
“I’m realizing its important to hear the heart, words, vision and culture of the place in which you are working.”
I am also learning a lot by listening to what is not being said. The cultural cues, the responses from staff, the way they interact. In business, especially when starting out, I’m realizing its important to hear the heart, words, vision and culture of the place in which you are working. Being in a different country where I don’t speak the native language, I’m realizing how vital this is. Having said that, it is also important to speak your mind and share the value and perspective that you have as well. What you’ve learned is important. What you’re passionate about is important. What you have to share is important.
With that, I’ll leave you with an encouragement wherever your international work experience or career may take you: dive in, give it your best and keep going. You’ve got this! The best is yet to come!
If Nick’s blog has inspired you to undertake an international internship, why not check out our Internship Program in Ho Chi Minh City? You can also find more essential information, including Program Prices, from our top menu.
