Impotance Of Communication In A Diverse Business Environment

(Cultural Awareness: An essential Element of Doing Business Abroad) Therefore, words may not have the same meaning when translated into another language. There are numerous gestures, facial expressions that may send different signals. There are even cultural differences between men and women. Men tend to be more direct, whereas, women will seek support and discuss issues.
             Most of the mistakes Americans make is assuming that business all over is done the American way and the misunderstanding of non-verbal communication. We have got to learn how to handle ourselves and that will entirely depend on where we are going. We need to do our homework as we expect visitors who come to our country. We may need to learn how to develop a relationship before doing business. We should never take for granted that the person speaking English will always understand us. Awareness, sensitivity and real sincerity can go a long way to avoid embarrassing situations when interacting with foreigners. Patience willingness to listen, respect for other cultures, behaving on local knowledge and sense of humor should always be observed. (Leaper, Norm, 1996).
             Most of our international dealings are handled in our native English. In preparing for a presentation or a report consider cutting out the technical jargon, buzzwords and acronyms. The challenge faced by our international counterparts when dealing with us causes confusion for them. .
             We must be aware of business customs before an embarrassing moment occurs. For example; a British company met with a newly acquired Finnish subsidiary, the Finns suggested moving the discussion to the sauna. The British arrived to the unisex sauna with a towel wrapped around only to find the Finnish managers - male and female - relaxed and totally naked.
             Many of international business like to do face to face communication. Many countries do not follow schedules. Italians continue to practice the traditional ritual of a three-to-four course (with wine) lunch each day, followed by a rest period of a couple of hours.