Cross-cultural communication means the way people from different cultures communicate in both similar and different ways. In the modern businesses, the workplaces are becoming vast by numerous geographical expansions that also span numerous cultures (Dima, 1990). The expansion may require communication understanding between the people from different cultural backgrounds so that they can achieve a common goal. Therefore, in the new world, cross-cultural communications is the new norm as it follows certain principles and also faces various challenges and barriers.
Principles of cross-cultural communication
Some main principles of intercultural communication are dependent on having the knowledge. The first principle of the communication is understanding the cultural differences and problems while working to solve the problems. It means that the person should know that the sender and the receiver of a message do not speak the same language. Therefore, the content of the message should also consider the different cultures. The content of the message means the words and meaning can be interpreted differently according to different structures.
The second principle is the adjusted behaviors that people must adjust to when some efforts are unsuccessful. The process used in conveying the message should be in consideration for the varying cultures that participate in the communication. Some cultures have certain values and traditions that would require some adjusting in the workplace (Bannon & Mattock, 2003). For example; some form of greeting that includes kissing on the cheek is considered wrong according to some cultures. The ability to mutually accept the different cultures in the workplace is also considered as a strong principle of cross-cultural communication. It means that the context in which the cross-cultural communication would influence the effectiveness of the communication. Based on the present cultures, leaders or speakers can consider the principles of effective cross-cultural communication.
Barriers to cross-cultural communication and the solutions
Cultural differences lead to communication failure due to various barriers that hinder the cross-cultural communication. Language is the most common barrier because some people may not understand English, which is considered the international language in business (Norales, 2006). When communicating with an individual who is not fluent in English communication may not be effective. Language barriers can be solved by ensuring the workforce has some members who are fluent in English and help take over once there is an issue with the communication. The organizations can also provide training that helps people understand and speak English fluently. English is universal and can be easily used by individuals from different cultures.
The cultural issues also create barriers in cross-cultural communications as a result of varying ethics, different values, accepted decorum and even some different gestures and facial expressions. People should understand the differences as a sign of respect for other cultures. For example; in the United States, speakers can use personal anecdotes as a method of building audience rapport (Norales, 2006). In some other countries, it would be considered offensive and tiresome to use personal anecdotes. The differences in behavior can be addressed by ensuring the use of acceptable expressions and gestures that portray respect for the other cultures.
The presentation style of communication may also be considered as a barrier depending on the level of interaction. The Americans believe in a deeper level of interaction when presenting; where they appear lively and very interactive. On the other hand, the Europeans conduct the presentations in formal, detailed and minimal interruptions with questions only asked at the end of the presentation. For the Japanese people, they mostly rely on the technical presentation. Therefore, without understanding the different presentation styles, communication may not be effective to some listeners.
Hostile stereotypes are used to prejudge others based on the cultural background, and it can lead to misconceptions and eventually acts as a communication barrier. It means the assumptions based on the characteristics of a certain group which can be offensive and untrue. Therefore, stereotyping should be avoided, and people should treat each other professionally and not based on some assumptions about groups (Norales, 2006). Most stereotypes can also be considered as a form of discrimination based on the cultural backgrounds. Therefore, in the workplace people should learn to respect each other’s cultures and backgrounds.
Emotional display where people consider the display of emotions such as anger in the office as an offense while other consider anger should be displayed during discussions in the office. Some other emotional displays such as affection may also be offensive to some conservative cultures. The misunderstanding of the emotional display can also lead to failure in communication.
Conclusion
Cross-cultural communication depends on the knowledge of the different cultures surrounding the speakers. It helps in choosing the appropriate content, process and context when communication to an audience with people from different cultural backgrounds. Cross-cultural communication is also responsible for effective management and leadership activities in an organization. Communication is the core element for people to work together to achieve a specific goal. Failure to understand each other during communication may lead to losses, and lack of achieved goals and objectives. Leaders are responsible for implementing cross-cultural communication within members in the workplace or organization.
References
Bannon, G., & Mattock, J. (2003). Cross-cultural communication: The essential guide to the international business. London: Kogan Page.
Dima, N. (1990). Cross-cultural communication. McLean, VA: Institute for the Study of Man.
Norales, F. O. (2006). Cross-cultural communication: Concepts, cases, and challenges. Youngstown, NY: Cambria Press.
