Nepal, a Himalayan nation, boasts a very unique working culture that speaks volumes of its history and constantly evolving landscape. Though modernization is taking place at a frenetic pace, there are still values from the past being infused into work relationships, resulting in a fascinating blend of the old and the new. The most glaring aspect of Nepalese working culture is the emphasis placed on relationships and harmony. Colleagues become extremely close, and the relationship spills over into society beyond the workplace. This results in a very communal and supportive community feeling, and the atmosphere is warm and friendly. Communication is indirect and subtle, with the bonus points of respect and courtesy. Trust and rapport must be built in order to be successful at work, and this requires patience and tolerance. But this focus on harmony can create indirectness, where things might not be directly said in an effort to preserve harmony.
Hierarchy and respect for seniority are deeply embedded in Nepali culture and are extended even to leadership and decision-making.
Leaders would most likely address subordinates with terms of respect like father figures, and leaders would serve as mentors and coaches to subordinates. While this can create a sense of security and organization, it has the potential to crush individual initiative and creativity. Decision-making is usually top-down with little contribution from lower-ranking staff. It is slow but does ensure decisions are well thought out and coordinated with the general organizational goals. Time in Nepal is relatively elastic and fluid. Deadlines are viewed as guidelines and not rigid, and lateness is tolerated more.
This can cause challenges for someone accustomed to more formalized requirements, but does allow for agility and reaction to the unforeseen. Quality is always valued, but with a great deal of care and attention to detail and dedication to craftsmanship. This is perhaps reflected in the rich cultural heritage and as-yet-developing manufacturing foundation in Nepal. Customer service in Nepal is warm, welcoming, and a very strong desire to please. Long-term client relations are made to take center stage, and personal service is also encouraged. Customer focus draws roots from Nepali cultural deference and respectability. Nepal, although improving its gender equity status, maintains customary gender conventions inside the working space. Women continue to lack their fair share of management and opportunities, with chances of dissimilarity in wages and chances. There is more and more an awareness of these issues, however, and measures are taken to promote gender equality and empower women in the workplace.
Family is a very big part of Nepalese life, and a working and family balance is inclined towards being prioritized.
There is an expectation that workers will support each other in personal emergencies, and overall a perception that some family responsibilities take priority over work. Personally, I appreciate the Nepalese work culture's extremely strong emphasis on relationships, team spirit, and customer service. All these are recipes for a good and supportive working environment where people are valued. I believe, however, that there is still room to address gender equality, inclusiveness, and encouraging more of a pro-active and creative mindset. Being from a Nepalese rural village in the Terai, I have learned through experience the importance of community and resilience. I was brought up in a close-knit society where I learned the importance of cooperation, respect for the elderly, and adaptability. These are the lessons that have shaped my communication style, as now I am more attuned to non-verbal communication and accommodating of other individuals' needs. But I am also aware of the potential for cross-cultural miscommunication and do take a level of care to be culturally sensitive.
In short, Nepal's work culture is a rich fabric with strands of tradition and modernity. Though rough around the edges, there is much to be appreciated in its focus on relationships, harmony, and customer service. Taking its strengths and improving on its weaknesses, Nepal can make its workplace productive and satisfying for everyone.