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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS PAGE
Group Coaching: Understanding the Asian Stakeholder Mindset
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How to Apply Cultural Insights in Stakeholder Engagement and Organisational Support
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FAQ QUICK LINKSFAQ QUICK LINKS
 Find what you need on this page.
REGISTRATION & BOOKING
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How do I register for the program?
You can register directly through the online form on the program landing page (click the 'Return to Program Details' button below). Once submitted, you’ll receive an automated confirmation email.
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What is the difference between Pre-Registration and Enrolment?
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Pre-Registration: Tentatively reserves your place at the lower Pre-Registration Rate. This does not require payment and gives you time to arrange internal approvals.
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Enrolment (Confirm & Pay): Finalises your place in the program once payment is received by credit card.
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Can my organisation access a discount for registering multiple participants?
Yes. If you’re registering between four and six participants from the same organisation, you can access the Team Registration Rate, capped at AUD 3,577 (inclusive of GST) – a substantial saving compared with the individual Standard Rate of AUD 1,210 per participant.
- That’s equivalent to over 50% discount if six participants join, over 40% discount for five participants, and over 25% discount for four participants.
- This capped rate makes it easy for departments and agencies to extend the professional development opportunity to multiple staff members while keeping within a single budget approval.
- Only one person needs to complete the registration and payment. Afterward, I’ll contact you directly to collect the participant names and details, and each participant will receive their own confirmation and access to the program materials.
Learn more about the Team Registration Rate.
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Can I pre-register someone from my team or organisation without yet knowing who will participate?
Yes. The pre-registration form allows you to reserve a place for your organisation even if you haven’t finalised who will attend.
- We understand it can take time to confirm availability internally.
- If you later decide not to proceed, there’s no penalty for withdrawing your pre-registration.
- You’ll also receive a reminder before pre-registrations close and payment is due, so you can confirm the participant details at that stage.
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How many places are available?
Each cohort is capped at 15 participants to ensure small-group interaction and personalised coaching. Places are confirmed strictly on a first-come, first-served basis once payment is processed.
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Can I change my cohort after registering?
Where possible, we will try to accommodate changes between cohorts if a scheduling clash arises. This depends on availability, as cohorts may already be full. You’ll have the opportunity to indicate availability/unavailability on the registration form.
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What happens if the cohort I want is full?
If your preferred cohort is full, you’ll be placed on a waitlist and contacted if a space becomes available.
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Can I substitute a colleague if I can no longer attend?
Yes. Substitutions may be arranged before the program starts, as long as you email Craig ([email protected]) in advance to confirm the details of the replacement participant.
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Will I receive a tax invoice?
Yes. Once payment is processed, a tax invoice showing GST will be emailed to you.
PAYMENT
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What payment methods are accepted?
Payment is accepted by credit card only through our secure online system. We do not accept bank transfers or purchase orders.
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Is payment required at the time of registration?
Not for Pre-Registration. Pre-Registration simply reserves your place at the lower rate. Payment is required later, during the enrolment period, to confirm your place in the program.
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How do I know my payment has been processed?
Once payment is completed, you’ll receive an on-screen confirmation and an email with your tax invoice. Your place in the program is then fully confirmed.
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What if my organisation’s firewall or security settings block the payment portal?
Occasionally, government networks prevent online transactions. If this happens, please call Craig Shim on 0481 387 625, or email him at [email protected] to arrange a suitable time for him to return your call and process payment securely over the phone..
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Are my payment details secure?
Yes. Payments are processed using a secure, encrypted gateway that meets industry standards for data protection. Your card details are never stored on our system.
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Can my organisation access a discount for registering multiple participants?
Yes. If you’re registering between four and six participants from the same organisation, you can access the Team Registration Rate, capped at AUD 3,577 (inclusive of GST) – a substantial saving compared with the individual Standard Rate of AUD 1,210 per participant.
- That’s equivalent to over 50% discount if six participants join, over 40% discount for five participants, and over 25% discount for four participants.
- This capped rate makes it easy for departments and agencies to extend the professional development opportunity to multiple staff members while keeping within a single budget approval.
- Only one person needs to complete the registration and payment. Afterward, I’ll contact you directly to collect the participant names and details, and each participant will receive their own confirmation and access to the program materials.
Learn more about the Team Registration Rate.
ATTENDANCE & FLEXIBILITY
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How much time do I need to commit?
The program includes four live sessions of 90 minutes each (a total of 6 hours).
- Between sessions, you’ll also have access to optional activities and self-assessments that you can complete at your own pace.
- In total, you can expect to commit around 6–10 hours depending on how much of the optional material you choose to explore.
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What should I do if I have limited availability on program dates?
You’ll have the chance to indicate your availability in the pre-registration form. Where possible, we’ll accommodate limited mix-and-match between cohorts if spaces are available.
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What if I already know I can’t attend one of the sessions?
You are still welcome to register. Each session is recorded and available within a few days, with access continuing for one month after the program concludes. This means you can catch up at a time that suits you.
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Can I mix and match sessions across different cohorts?
Where possible, we’ll try to accommodate requests to join a different cohort if you have a scheduling clash.
- Availability depends on whether the other cohort is already full, as each is capped at 15 participants.
- You’ll have the opportunity to indicate availability or unavailability when completing your registration form.
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Can I substitute a colleague if I can no longer attend?
Yes. Substitutions may be arranged before the program starts, as long as you email Craig ([email protected]) in advance to confirm the details of the replacement participant.
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What happens if I miss a session unexpectedly?
If something comes up at short notice, you won’t lose out. You’ll still have access to the video recording, slides, and resources from that session, so you can stay on track with your cohort.
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Will I still get value if I miss more than one session?
Yes. While live interaction is recommended, the coaching frameworks and resources are designed so you can continue applying the content between sessions. Many participants also find it valuable to revisit recordings even if they attended live.
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What if I need to step out briefly during a session?
That’s fine. All sessions are recorded, and you’ll be able to catch up on any parts you miss.
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Do I need to attend every session live to receive a certificate of completion?
Certificates are issued on request once you confirm that you’ve engaged with the program — either by attending live or by watching the recordings and using the materials. You’ll still qualify even if your schedule prevents you from joining every session in real time, though live participation is encouraged to gain the full benefit of group coaching and discussion.
PROGRAM FORMAT & CONTENT
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What is the format of the program?
This is a small-group coaching program, not just training. Training is about receiving information; coaching is about applying it to your own context. Each cohort is capped at 15 participants so you can work through real challenges with guidance and peer input.
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What makes it coaching rather than training?
In each session, you’ll bring a specific work-related challenge (or identify one along the way) and apply intercultural frameworks to make progress towards your goal. The transformation looks different for every participant — it depends on your starting point and the challenges you choose to focus on.
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What if I don’t have a clear challenge to bring?
That’s fine. You’ll have opportunities to identify potential challenges, contribute advice to others, and test strategies against scenarios relevant to your role. At the very least, you’ll progress along the scale of Cultural Curiosity, gaining more awareness and practical confidence.
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How many sessions are included?
There are four live sessions, each running for 90 minutes over four weeks. This structure gives you time to apply strategies between sessions and return with real-world insights.
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Are the sessions interactive?
Yes. Each session blends structured input with discussion and peer learning. The aim is not only to share knowledge, but also to apply it to your professional context in real time.
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Will there be networking opportunities?
Yes. Small cohorts create natural opportunities to connect with peers from other government organisations, though participation in side conversations is entirely optional.
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Will country-specific insights be covered?
The focus is on cultural principles that apply across Asia. However, examples and discussions may draw on specific countries where relevant to participants’ challenges.
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Will I need to prepare anything before the program starts?
No formal preparation is required. However, you’ll get the most value by coming with at least one work-specific challenge that you’d like to explore.
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Do I need to do work between sessions?
Between sessions, you’ll be encouraged (but not required) to test the strategies in your own workplace. This helps you get the most out of the program, but it’s up to you how much you do. You’ll also have access to optional activities and self-assessments if you’d like to explore further.
ELIGIBILITY & PARTICIPATION
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Who is this program designed for?
This program is for Australian-based Federal, State/Territory and Local Government professionals involved in Asia-related work — either directly (e.g. stakeholder engagement, delegations, policy dialogue) or indirectly (e.g. corporate services, program support, communications).
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Do I need to work directly with Asian stakeholders to benefit?
No. Many participants work in support roles such as HR, finance, or communications. The coaching is designed so you can apply intercultural frameworks to your own responsibilities, even if you don’t engage with Asian counterparts directly.
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Can local government staff join?
Yes. Local government professionals are welcome, especially those working in economic development, investment attraction, tourism, sister-city relationships, or hosting delegations.
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Are contractors or consultants eligible?
If you work within or alongside government agencies on Asia-related projects, you may be eligible. Please contact Craig Shim ([email protected]) to confirm suitability before registering.
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Can government-funded agencies or statutory bodies participate?
Yes. Staff from agencies funded by government (e.g. research institutes, regulators, commissions) are eligible, provided their role relates to Asia-facing work or support.
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Are there any prerequisites or prior knowledge required?
No. The program is designed for professionals at all levels, from newcomers to Asia engagement through to senior leaders seeking fresh frameworks.
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Can international government officials (outside Australia) join?
For confidentiality reasons, this program is reserved for Australian-based government professionals. If you are based overseas or work in a non-Australian government agency, you may prefer a private coaching option such as the Understanding the Asian Business Mindset program which is 100% tailored to your specific needs and professional context.
CONFIDENTIALITY & SECURITY
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How is confidentiality maintained in a mixed-agency cohort?
Confidentiality and security are top priorities. Participants are expected to respect the confidentiality of discussions and follow the security arrangements of their own organisation.Â
- Alphacrane Intercultural Specialists also operates under a strict confidentiality policy — see our Terms & Policies page for details.
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Will sessions be recorded?
Yes. Recordings are made available only to your cohort, within a few days of each session, and access continues for one month after the program concludes.
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Where are the recordings hosted?
Recordings are stored on a password-protected page, accessible only to participants in your cohort. They are not shared publicly or outside the group.
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Are recordings captioned?
Yes. All recordings include closed captions for accessibility.
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What if my agency has strict confidentiality requirements?
If participating in a mixed-agency cohort is not suitable for your circumstances, you may prefer a private coaching option such as the Understanding the Asian Business Mindset program which is 100% tailored to your specific needs and professional context.
CANCELLATIONS & SUBSTITUTIONS
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What is the cancellation policy?
You may cancel up to 10 business days before the first session for a full refund (less any transaction fees).
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Can I get a refund if I cancel after that?
Cancellations received fewer than 10 business days before the first session are non-refundable, except in exceptional personal circumstances such as serious illness or bereavement, at Alphacrane Intercultural Specialists’ discretion.
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Can I receive a refund once the program has started?
Refunds are unavailable once the program has commenced, regardless of attendance.
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Can someone else attend in my place?
Yes. Substitutions are welcome, provided they are requested before the first session and the substitute is an Australian-based government professional whose role involves Asia-related work — either directly with counterparts or indirectly through organisational support.
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What if I miss one or more sessions?
If you can’t attend a session, you’ll still have access to the video recording, slides, and resources. Access continues for one month after the program concludes.
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How do I cancel or request a substitution?
All requests must be submitted in writing by email to [email protected]. Please refer to our Terms & Policies page for full details.
LOGISTICS & COHORT DETAILS
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When does the program start?
The next cohorts begin in late October 2025. Exact dates and times are listed under Coaching Dates & Times on the program page (click on the 'Return to Program Details' button below).
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How big is each cohort?
Each cohort is capped at 15 participants to ensure small-group interaction and personalised coaching.
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Who else will be in my cohort?
Cohorts are made up of government professionals from a mix of agencies at federal, state/territory, and local levels. This diversity is part of the learning experience, as you’ll gain insights from colleagues across different functions and jurisdictions.
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When will I know who else is in my cohort?
Participant lists are shared once enrolments are confirmed, so you’ll know in advance who you’ll be working with.
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What if the cohort I want is already full?
If your preferred cohort is full, you’ll be placed on a waitlist and contacted if a place becomes available.
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Can I switch to another cohort after I’ve enrolled?
Where possible, we’ll try to accommodate switches if you have a scheduling clash. This depends on availability, as all cohorts are capped at 15 participants.
TECHNOLOGY REQUIREMENTS
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What platform is used for the sessions?
All sessions are delivered virtually via Microsoft Teams. You don’t need a paid Teams account — a link will be provided after enrolment, and you can join through your web browser or the desktop/mobile app.
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When will I receive the meeting links?
You’ll receive your Teams links once your enrolment is confirmed. These will be emailed to you together with a Welcome Pack to help you get set up and ready for the first session.
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Do I need special equipment?
No special equipment is required. You’ll just need:
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A computer, tablet or phone with a stable internet connection
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A webcam and microphone (built-in or external) for interactive discussions
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Headphones or a headset for clearer audio (recommended)
- A private space where you won’t be overheard, to maintain the confidentiality of coaching discussions
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What if my organisation blocks access to Teams?
If your IT settings prevent you from joining, you can usually connect through the browser link instead of the app. If issues persist, contact Craig at [email protected]for support in finding a workaround.
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Will the sessions be recorded?
Yes. Session video recordings are uploaded within a few days to a secure, password-protected page, accessible only to participants in your cohort. Access continues for one month after the final session. Each video includes closed captions.
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Do I need to install anything beforehand?
It’s best to test the Microsoft Teams link in advance. Instructions will be sent prior to the first session to make sure you’re ready to go.
OTHER QUESTIONS?
UNDERSTANDING THE ASIAN STAKEHOLDER MINDSET
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