The approach to working cross-culturally is to acknowledge that assumptions cannot be made to seem to know an individual's ancestry, ideology and value system of their culture. This knowledge can only truly be achieved through open communication and understanding of the person. .
According to Lynch ( 1992, ) the steps to take to learn about a culture are to participate in the daily lives of the cultural group, read about the culture, learn the language and talk to individuals who act as mediators or guides ( Lynch cited in HSA 2101 Lecture Notes.2003 ). This is very theoretical and not totally practical. To achieve this task would require immense time and dedication, even if desired, it would virtually be impossible to gain knowledge of all the diversified cultural groups within Australia. The key factors are to be aware and make no assumptions about the concerns, needs and resources of the individual. Therefore the human service worker will need to equip themselves with some background knowledge of the individual's history and the social, economical, legal and institutional issues surrounding this culture. It is essential to remember that all facets of an individual's existence must be taken into consideration, therefore an holistic approach is needed. Failure to recognise this inhibits a successful outcome for the consumer and the worker (also known as the client). .
In preparation for cross- cultural work an understanding of the basic principles and practices is necessary. It is essential to develop good cross-cultural communication skills, both verbal and non-verbal. As well, human service workers must acknowledge what is appropriate and inappropriate behaviour when dealing with different cultural groups. Moreover, they must be aware of their own cultural prejudices and values as well as those belonging to the cultural groups with which they may be working with. Consciousness needs to be placed on the negative tendency to categorise and stereotype certain cultural groups.
