When in Rome
We've all come across many a well-groomed lawn.
Some of these green spaces are there for us to actively play, picnic and relax on. Others are strictly meant to be looked at, not stepped on. To make sure we understand that, there will be a sign telling us as much.
Have you ever noticed how that sign takes on a different tone depending on which part of the world you're in?
Here are ten real examples of how that sign reads across the globe:
The little grass has a life; please leave the green beneath your feet.
Kindly do not walk on the grass.
Please do not step on the grass.
Please keep off the grass.
Do not walk on the grass.
Walking on the grass is forbidden!
Forbidden to trample or crush the lawn!
Lawn prohibited.
Keep off the grass!
Keep off!
Ten messages with the same goal: to protect the grass. But their tone and wording differ considerably from culture to culture. The topic at hand may just be about keeping off the grass. But what it really shows is how differently cultures communicate rules, boundaries and respect. There's no better or worse. There's just culturally different.
The old rule was "When in Rome." The new reality in today's global workplace is "One team, multiple Romes."
Awareness that culture influences how we communicate is an important step to building more cohesive global teams and work environments.
Which sign suits you best? Let us know in the comments.
This post was originally published on LinkedIn on July 21st, 2026.
