This helps build rapport and ensures that important information doesn’t get missed or misunderstood. Restate or summarise what the other person has said, to ensure that you have understood them correctly, and ask frequent questions. Practice active listeningĪctive listening is a very effective strategy for improving cross cultural communication. Say “Please do this quickly” rather than “Please do this in an efficacious manner.” 5. Two syllable words are much easier to understand than three syllable words, and one syllable words are better than two syllable words. In a cross cultural conversation there’s no need to make it harder for both of you by using big words. ![]() If the person you’re speaking to is talking too quickly or their accent is making it difficult for you to understand them, don’t be afraid to politely ask them to slow down too. But don’t slow down too much as it might seem patronising. Break your sentences into short, definable sections and give your listener time to translate and digest your words as you go. ![]() Modulating your pace will help, as will speaking clearly and pronouncing your words properly. Speak slowlyĮven if English is the common language in a cross cultural situation it’s not a good idea to speak at your normal conversational speed. As a result you could end up confusing them or at worst, offending them. They may understand the individual words you have said, but not the context or the meaning. Not even the most educated non-native English speaker will have a comprehensive understanding of English slang, idioms and sayings. Be aware of these familiarity tokens and don’t jump straight to first name terms until you receive a cue from the other person to do so. Every culture has its own specific way of indicating this formality: ‘Herr’ and ‘Frau’ in Germany, reversing family and given names in China and the use of ‘san’ in Japan for men and women etc. For example, many cultures expect a degree of formality at the beginning of communication between individuals. Before you meet, research the target culture, or if time allows, do some cross cultural training. ![]() Many cultures have specific etiquette around the way they communicate. Here are our top ten tips for effective cross-cultural communication: 1. Even when a language barrier doesn’t exist, cross-cultural communication can be challenging. Every culture has its own set of tacit assumptions and tendencies when it comes to face-to-face interactions, and trying to get your point across effectively can sometimes be difficult. In today’s diverse workplace, communication issues can take on an added dimension of complexity.
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