Businesses and organizations have become more internationally focused, and customers and clients are no longer limited to those in one's own backyard. But knowing how to "do business" with those international customers first requires knowing how to communicate with them. Though English is oftenthe language of global business, everyone doesn't speak it the same way. And there are significant differences in how people think, feel, and behave in business situations that are largely the result of cultural differences. Failing to understand and respond to those differences can have a negative impact on your business, from "loss of face," to contracts that never get signed. Many businesses learn the hard way that cultural factors can't be overlooked.
Q: What is "Intercultural Communication"?
A: Sometimes used interchangeably with the term "cross-cultural communication," this can be broadly defined as the way in which people from different countries and cultures act, communicate and perceive the world around them. As a field, Intercultural Communication draws from a number of disciplines including anthropology, sociology, linguistics, psychology and communication.
Q: What kinds of business issues does the field of intercultural communication help to resolve?
A: When American businesses need to interact with foreign (or multicultural) customers, business partners, or employees, there will often be significant cultural differences in the style of communication. This can create misunderstandings, loss of time, and even lost business. The need to communicate across cultures is becoming the norm for many businesses, and knowing how to do it effectively sets you apart from the competition.
Q: But why worry -- most business is conducted in English, right?
A: While that may be true, it's wise to keep in mind that even when the language is the same, the values, beliefs, and assumptions of the people speaking it can be very different. The more you know about those differences, the more effective you will be during an intercultural situation.
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