Frequently Asked Questions
1. How do I know if this is the right session for me?
If you’re new to Poland and want to quickly understand how things work here, these sessions are perfect for you. You’ll gain local insights and practical tools to help you settle in with confidence, whether it’s understanding the Polish communication styles or navigating daily life.
If you’ve been here for a while but still feel like something’s missing, these sessions will deepen your understanding of Polish culture and help you navigate its nuances. We focus on Poland’s real context: the everyday challenges and cultural quirks that surprise expats.
If you’re looking for practical, local guidance that applies directly to your experience in Poland, this is the right fit.
2. I’ve already done a cultural orientation training. Do I really need this?
First of all – great. You’re ahead of the curve. Any time spent learning about cultural awareness and adaptation is time well spent.
But Polka Dots isn’t about „culture” in theory. It’s about Poland. The real and sometimes contradictory Poland you’re living in right now. That means local context, not global models. Real-life examples, not abstract frameworks. And honest talk about the stuff expats in Poland struggle with and what they adore.
So if you’ve already got the basics, bravo! This will take you further, faster, and straight into the heart of where you’ve landed.
3. What are the participants saying?
Here’s some feedback from participants:
„Geez, I finally know how not to take things personally.”
„I’m now feeling so much more confident with all the communication signals”.
„Great tips how to build real relationships with Poles, not just 'polite exchange’ ones!”
„The part about learning key words and phrases that change how you’re received was gold”.
4. Do I need to take all four sessions?
Nope—but if you do, they’re designed to build on each other. Many participants say the full Starter Pack gave them the most “aha” moments. Also, the sessions are designed to be interactive, not passive. Participants engage with the material (and each other) from start to finish.
5. Can I bring this to my company or university?
Yes. I work with HR departments and international offices. Reach out via the Contact page to talk about sessions tailored to your group.
6. I’m not new to Poland. Will I still get something out of this?
Yes. Especially if you’ve hit a wall or feel stuck. Longer-term residents may use the training to help them finally understand things they’d been wondering about for a while.
7. Why is it called Polka Dots?
Is it because Polka means a Polish woman in Polish (and other Slavic languages)? Or because ‘polka’ is a traditional dance, popular across Central Europe (and originating from Bohemia)? Or maybe it’s because polka-dots is a spot-on pattern that never goes out of style?
It’s actually each one and none of these things. It’s a prime example of how Poland (and Central Europe) can function in many close or unrelated realms and contexts. For some people, this will make perfect sense. For others, it will forever remain confusing.
Just. Like. Poland.
8. What if I’m not sure yet?
That’s totally okay. Let’s keep in touch – you can download the guidebook and sign up for the newsletter to keep in touch. The journey doesn’t need to start big.