Cross-Cultural Communication 30-Day Challenge – Get Extreme With Clarity
Some cultures are more open than others. Some people like to talk and some people don’t. There is one common human trait we need to remember in cross-cultural communication: we need to understand others before we can have a meaningful connection with them.
This is the last tip on improving explanations to get extreme clarity in cross-cultural communications. Tomorrow we will look at how a global vision can improve your clarity in communication.
Clarity In Cross-Cultural Communication Tip 25
Today’s tip reminds us of our own role in helping others to understand us:
Tell others why you do certain things differently so they can understand your cultural environment
Mistrust in foreigners is common in most cultures. We often notice the cultural differences before we notice the similarities. And in most cases cultural differences create a stronger reaction than similarities.
This means that we need to improve our understanding of different cultures before we can truly become “friends”.
When we feel the negative reaction towards a cultural difference, it is sometimes difficult for us to remember to ask “why”. Why is there a cultural difference? Instead of relying on the other person to move out of his own comfort zone to ask you why you do things differently, it is much easier and helpful for you to provide the explanation.
People with strong international skills reach out and offer explanations. These are not excuses. You are simply giving the other person an opportunity to adjust and possibly open a dialogue for further exchange and understanding.
Use this tip as a starting point. Think about what this means to you. Not sure what you think about this? There are a few links below for suggested reading to get you started. Follow each of these tips this month to improve your cultural skills.
Further Suggested Reading & Viewing
- International Sales Best Practice – Have The Answers
- Is International English In Your Future?
- Customizing Content For Your Clients
Get All Cross-Cultural Communication Tips:
- Read more about all of the 2009 Cross-Cultural Communication Challenges
- Cross Cultural Communication Challenge 1 – Expand Your Mindset
- Cross Cultural Communication Challenge 2 – Get Extreme With Clarity
- Cross Cultural Communication Challenge 3 – Build Trust
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She is who I turn to when I have questions and you should too"
-- Chris Garrett, co-author of the "Problogger" book
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