Cross Cultural Communication In Business and Informal Situations

At first glance, one might say that communication is communication and that whether communicating with someone from a different culture or not, it should be easy. However, this is not the case. There are many ways that your dialog can be viewed. The beliefs that you hold and the assumptions that you make are essential to understanding the communication process. There are some pitfalls to avoid when engaging in cross cultural conversations.

Understand your own beliefs. what do you feel is most important in communication? What are your beliefs about different cultures and/or different communication styles? There have been many westerners who have embarked on a cross cultural dialog, all to be disappointed. Some of this disappointment stems from their approach. Don't assume that the way of the west is always the best. It is important that there is a mutual respect between cultures. Understand that each of you brings something unique and pertinent to the dialog. Have an open mind when communicating. Be prepared to adjust your way of thinking and maybe even some of the values that you hold. Also, be willing to explain your values and your manner of doing things. Take time to share your differences. If this is the first time that you are meeting someone from that particular culture, refrain from making the assumption that "all people from that culture" act in a similar manner. It is important to ascertain which are cultural norms and which are personality traits.

Not everyone puts the same value on eye contact. Some cultures view it as extremely rude to make direct eye contact. Of course, Americans think that people are being deceptive if they don't make eye contact. However, this might not be the case if the person is from a different culture. If you are from the West, you need to understand that a lack of eye contact does not mean that the person is being deceptive. In fact, in some cases, it is a very definite sign of respect. If you are not from the West, then you need to realize that the person who makes direct eye contact is not doing so out of rudeness or brashness.

There can be lingual miscommunications. Even when a person speaks relatively good English and this is the language that you converse in, often, there can be misinterpretations. For the native English speaker, it is important that you make your sentences clear and easy to understand. Don't ask "yes or no" questions. Also, don't ask three or four questions at one time. Ask questions that ensure that the person not only understands what you are saying but can perform what you have asked. If you are unsure about the person's comprehension, write it down. Some people are much better at understanding written English. This also gives them a chance to view the words two or three times without you repeating yourself.

Understand that words might have different meanings. You should avoid humor and slang. First, they might not be understood by the nonwestern person. Second, they might seem quite casual for either a business relationship or an acquaintance. Understand that some language does not translate. There are differences in dialect even between people of the same region or country. This is confusing for non-native English speakers.

Body language and tone can be perceived in different ways. While your body language might imply that you are in a hurry or that you are ambitious, it might signify to the other person that you are rude, impolite or uncaring. Understand the body language and customs of another culture. Understand that your nonverbal language, posture and tone might be offensive or misconstrued by others. To minimize this, take time to learn about the culture that you are interacting with and don't rush through communication so that you miss cues that will tell you how you are being perceived.

Some cultures place lots of significance on drinking tea and small talk before business takes place. When attempting to create a friendship or a business partnership, it is seen as impolite for you to turn down an invitation to meet the family. While this might seem unnecessary to the westerner, it is essential to people from other cultures. It is helpful to also remember that other cultures are not as bold and direct as the west. For westerners, it might be difficult to decode the indirect messages.

Although cross-cultural training is always recommended, especially in the context of business, it is rarely done in the context of a budding friendship. It is a good idea to read and attempt to understand the culture by viewing other sources of media, etc. However, a slow and steady dialog with the other person will also yield the same type of understanding. Books, training and movies are great introductions, but they will never take the place of personal dialog. If you take things slowly and have an open mind, you will both benefit from your communication.