Imagine your supervisor called you into the office one day and informed you that the department you were leading has been outsourced to another country…and YOU were being moved there to train the new employees? Now, imagine further that the country you are now moving to shares little with the culture to which you have been accustomed. For this assignment, you will view a feature-length film that fictionally tells this story, one that has been very real for many leaders who find themselves in a global context. While the film probably will make you laugh a bit, it also provides some glimpses into just how complex the role of the global leader can be.
1. View the 2006 feature-length film (NOT the 2010 TV series) entitled “Outsourced,” starring actor Josh Hamilton (PG-13 rating). While this movie is considered a mix of comedy, drama, and romance, it offers many interesting insights into what it would be like to find oneself leading a team in a very different culture. The film is widely available for viewing from streaming apps like Freevee, Tubi, and DirecTV. It also may be rented inexpensively from Amazon Prime, Apple TV, Google Play, and others.
2. After viewing the film, write a one and a half to two-page reflection essay (400-600 words) about your observations. Here are some thought starters:
a. What mistakes were made by the main character? Why do you think he made them?
b. What are some of the challenges that the main character experienced that would be particularly challenging for you in a similar situation, and why?
c. How would your emotions influence your rational thinking in such a different culture?
d. What would be some steps you might take to address the disorientation that you are likely to experience?
e. What leader behaviors would you prioritize as you adjusted to leading in a different cultural context?
