What are some differences you might find within the language used in a culture?
Language and culture are intertwined. A particular language usually points out to a specific group of people. When you interact with another language, it means that you are also interacting with the culture that speaks the language. You cannot understand one’s culture without accessing its language directly.
What are the things that cause the most serious problems in cross-cultural communication?
Things that create the most serious problems in cross-cultural communication
- DIFFERENT POINT OF VIEW.
- A CUSTOM FOR MARRIAGES. i) the meaning of marriage for Arabs. ii) marriages between cousins.
- IN WORKING PLACES. i) verbal factors. -misinterpretion.
- RELIGIOUS. blasphemy vs freedom of expression. instinct.
How can we avoid misinterpretation in cross cultural communication?
Here are a few tips for navigating cross-cultural business:
- Do your research.
- Don’t jump to conclusions or make judgements.
- Read the room.
- Know the difference between the cultural and the personal.
- Give everyone time to speak.
- Prioritise transparent communication.
- Be united in your mission and vision.
What factors might contribute to cultural misunderstandings?
Sometimes, wrong pronunciation can cause misunderstanding and often one word may have different meaning in different cultures or countries….So, here are some of the most common cultural misunderstandings one may have to face.
- Hand Gestures:
- Embracing:
- Mind your feet:
- No Shoes:
- Using Words Carefully:
How can cross cultural communication be improved?
Here are our top ten tips for effective cross-cultural communication:
- Maintain etiquette. Many cultures have specific etiquette around the way they communicate.
- Avoid slang.
- Speak slowly.
- Keep it simple.
- Practice active listening.
- Take turns to talk.
- Write things down.
- Avoid closed questions.