Language and socio-cultural barriers often make the workplace dynamics an entirely new ball game.  Here are some tips to help you cope…

•    Get Help at Home:  This especially applies to expat women who have families to take care of.  The reason why this should be top priority is that if you don’t have to stress about your home and family you will be able to give a hundred percent while at work.  Fretting about whether there’s food on the table or whether the kids are doing their homework will not let you concentrate on work.  Hire help if you can afford it and buy some peace of mind.  
•    Planning is a Huge Plus:  Keep a diary.  A “To do” list is a life saver.  Though this sounds clichéd it is in fact the easiest way you can stay organized and get things done on time.  
•    Being a Team Player:  No matter what the situation, being a team player always works.  Adopting a participative style of leadership and keeping an open door policy will help you get more done.  Being domineering and stand offish may work in the short run but will not pay off in the long run.  Besides, if you are working in a culture where women do not usually lead people, getting people to listen to an autocratic woman may prove to be futile.  
•    Fitting In:  Learn the language or some basic phrases if there is a different language that is spoken in your new country.  Try to fit in by adhering to any dress code that exists.  Watch other women at work and understand cultural differences and practices to adopt them.  
•    Dealing with Prejudices: Many cultures have preconceived notions about women and their role in society.  If you feel male employees and subordinates find it difficult to accept orders from a lady, don’t take it personally.  It is important to realize that they may have certain fixed ideas about your abilities.  Give it some time, let your work speak for you and things will fall into place.  
•    Resolving Conflicts:  Communication is the key to resolving conflicts anywhere, and the workplace is no exception.  No matter how glaring your differences, spell it out that you and your colleagues/employees are mature enough to agree to disagree.  Always keep communicating even in a conflict as breakdown of communication only worsens the situation.  Encourage your employees to talk about their ideas and opinions instead of bottling them up inside.  
•    Define Boundaries and Expectations:  At the very beginning, defining boundaries and expectations helps others gain a better understanding of where you are coming from.  Let people know what works for you.  More importantly, let them know what will not work for you.  That way they will know exactly what will be tolerated and what will land them in trouble with the boss.  This makes everything less stressful on both sides.