Tips for Improving Communication Across Cultures

Oct 10

Working across cultures can be challenging. Most difficulties can be tied to miscommunication and a lack of understanding of cultural norms.

Here are some tips for improving communication across cultures.

Verbal Communication

Keep language simple
Avoid slang or jargon
If someone doesn’t understand what you are saying, rephrase the sentence
Practice active listening - restate or summarize what the other person said to ensure you understand clearly
Allow “uncomfortable” pauses in conversation. Some cultures prefer long pauses, or if English isn’t their first language, they may just be gathering their thoughts. Don’t always jump in to break the silence, as you may actually be shutting the other person down, and they won’t want to talk further
Avoid Yes or No questions (also known as ‘closed questions’). Instead, ask 'open-ended questions.' Example: “What time would you like to meet?” instead of “Can we meet at 6?”
People from indirect (high-context) cultures may imply messages instead of answering directly. They may say Yes when they mean No; this is often done to save face and not cause you embarrassment. It is the listener’s responsibility to infer what is being said
Never assume; always get clarification. Draw out more information. Examples: “Please give me more information on this.” “I would like more details please.”

Pay close attention to non-verbal communication & cues - body language, eye contact, posture, facial expressions, gestures, tone, etc.
In Japan, rubbing of the neck or raise eyebrows may indicate disagreement
In India, the head bobble or head wobble is common. Indians may move their head from side to side, up & down, or diagonally when speaking. This typically just indicates that they are listening and hear you, but can mean varying degrees of agreement and disagreement
Touching (handshakes, hugs) is not generally OK between men & Muslim women. If someone extends their hand to you first, then it’s OK. Instead, place your hand on your chest

Pay attention to cultural considerations of the culture. Learn about the local culture - religion, gender issues, age, communication styles
If you are male, you may not be able to be speaking to a woman without a man present (common in many Muslim cultures)
You may need to address the most senior person in the room, showing respect for elders (common in many African cultures)
Use titles and honorifics (Mr., Mrs., Dr.) if appropriate (common in hierarchical and status-oriented cultures)

Contact me at hello@nicolebarile.com to learn more about working across cultures.

#futureofglobalwork

Nicole Barile