Communication is a key factor in today's fast growing global world. Economy, technology, immigration policies and transportation have engendered almost unimaginable changes and communicating effectively with people from diverse cultural backgrounds is now a must. For communication to be effective it must be correctly aligned with the culture of the recipient.
Diverse Cultures
There are in excess of 190 countries world-wide, each with its own diverse set of cultures and social rules and etiquette. To communicate effectively, it is vital to know the rules. As an example, in Europe, you should not chew gum or smoke without seeking permission, and in Germanic markets avoid using first names unless invited to do so by the other party; you should be punctual for meetings and if you are unsure of the proper dress code, err on the side of conservatism. Interestingly, the use of 'thumbs up' is fine almost anywhere except in Australia.
How to Communicate Effectively?
Oral, written and nonverbal communication are the principal elements of effective communication. As you work to become accustomed to a foreign culture, you need to be careful in the use of both verbal and nonverbal communication. Avoiding saying or doing the wrong things depends entirely upon a decent command of the culture concerned. Effective verbal communication depends on context, voice, pitch, quality of speech and more. Nonverbal communication, sometimes called the 'silent language', includes gestures, body language, posture, facial expressions and even dress code. As an example, the 'A-Okay' sign that is conveyed by placing the thumb and forefinger in an 'O' shape is regarded as an obscene gesture in Latin America and the Middle East, but is a common and positive gesture in the United States.
Improving Nonverbal Effectiveness
There are specific guidelines that can be used to improve accuracy in interpreting the non verbal behaviour of others. These include:-
• Put the situation into context - nonverbal behaviour is an emotional response, it reflects what is going on at that moment and can be used to better understand the person's reaction and intent.
• Consider any discrepancies between non verbal behaviour and verbal statements – are you being told the truth?
• Watch the subtleties. As an example, the difference between a real smile and a fake one can usually be intuitively detected by looking at the eyes.
The differences in communication styles also play an important role in effective discourse. Unlike other countries, in India it is considered disrespectful for women to call their husbands by their name. In Japan, lifting two fingers above one's head pointing upwards indicates anger. Awareness of these differences in both verbal and non verbal communication helps in avoiding any miscommunication. It is all too easy to inadvertently cause offence!
Communication Programmes
In a completely different environment and culture from your home town, it is challenging to accept the degree of change in workplace, environment, language and culture at the same time. There are communication programmes that can help to equip you with better communication skills and an appropriate understanding of the target culture and thus ease the transition.
Conclusion
There is much to learn and consider when doing a business in a new geography or culture. Effective communication beyond borders requires detailed research and preparation. Whether you are an individual considering relocation or a corporation considering entry into a new market, you ignore the broad ranging implications of cultural differences at your peril.
Suzanne Schiller is the Business Development Manager at Communicaid.
Communicaid is a Culture and Communication Skills Consultancy and a global leader in the design and delivery of
Cultural Awareness Programmes
