A global biotechnology organization with fewer than 10 employees in its U.S. office faced growing communication and morale challenges within its team.

Many members of the U.S. team felt disconnected from their European colleagues and often described themselves as the “stepchild” of the organization. While communication with the home office was fraught, the U.S. team also faced internal communication challenges rooted in behavioral styles and cultural differences.

Most team members were from North America, while several colleagues were from the Netherlands — a culture with a communication style that differed significantly from that of their North American counterparts. These differences in communication preferences and expectations began impacting collaboration, workplace relationships, and overall team morale.

The organization recognized the need to strengthen communication and create a more unified, collaborative team environment.

TrainSMART Solution

TrainSMART designed and delivered a customized communication training program focused on helping team members better understand themselves and each other.

The training helped participants:

• Identify their own communication preferences and behavioral styles
• Recognize and better understand the communication styles of others
• Improve interactions across different personalities and cultural backgrounds
• Develop practical strategies for more effective workplace communication

The program created a safe environment for open discussion, self-awareness, and improved team connection.

Results

Following the training, the organization experienced a noticeable improvement in team relationships and morale.

According to the Team Lead:

“After the training, I left the session with lots of positive energy because we had succeeded in the goal. The training really brought the team together. It’s been amazing. Every participant feels that way. They’ve been going out together after work.”

The training also helped create more open and honest communication within the team.

One scientist was able to have a difficult conversation with her manager that she likely would not have initiated prior to the training. During the conversation, she shared that she did not feel recognized within the organization. Her manager responded that she had no idea the employee felt slighted and that it had never been her intention.

The conversation ultimately strengthened their relationship and deepened their understanding of each other.

By improving communication awareness and helping employees better understand different behavioral and cultural styles, the organization took an important step toward building a stronger and more connected U.S. team.