The Affects of Cultural Business in Communication and How to Overcome It

Cultural differences can be define as the way the different cultures live, their beliefs, what they eat, their religious beliefs and so forth. Cultural differences also explain emotional expression. What does a smile say about the differences between American and Asian culture ? In business world, communication skill is very important to be success in daily operation of company and of course cultural differences will cause a difficulties of communication in business because of the type of language and the way everyone talk. Understanding every cultural differences and overcoming a language barriers are some of the consideration that people should have to do when dealing business with people of various culture. So, I will give some tips to overcome this kind of problem.

1) Time
Normally meeting schedule will be different for every country. There is country that have a meeting schedule more loose and flexible as in a number of African countries. Firstly, we have to know how time is perceive enables business to prepare and adapt communication to suit. The opinion ‘time is money’ may be interpreted in a variety of ways. To create a good impression and not appear too relaxed, or overly precise, you have to know the cultural values your audience holds of time.

2) Communications
For communication, you have to understand the manner in which cultural communications are structured or styled in every country that will become your business dealer and also you have to know the importance of social hierarchy and etiquette, and what is considered polite and respectful in every country. For example, cultures such as Japan, China and many Arab nationalities will regard social hierarchy and even age as integral to the way business communications and social interactions are conducted. This methods can help transmit message across cultural, social and hierarchical boundaries and will make your business communications to be internationally successful.

3) Dress
Regarding to the way people dress, it must be different between countries. A formal dress of a country is not necessarily be formal dress for other countries. So, the tips that I can give is before you attend a meeting or a presentation with audiences of differing cultures , find out what dress is expected (this may be more strict for women). It is normally better to appear smart, serious and well-presented, no matter your audience, if you are a guest in another culture. In your own culture this may not be as pertinent, but considering your audience’s preference may make a better impression.

4 ) Language
In some countries, like the United States and Germany, it is common for people to speak loudly and be more assertive or aggressive when sharing ideas or giving direction. In countries like Japan, people typically speak softly and are more passive about sharing ideas or making suggestions. When you interacting with people from different cultures, you have to speak in a neutral tone and making a conscious effort to be considerate of others' input, even if it is given in a manner to which you are not accustomed, can help foster effective business communication. The most important ia
you have to use an international language that can be understand by everyone so that, the meeting will not become an awkward meeting.

For the conclusion, preparation and understanding other cultures are very important to international business communications and it will determine whether your business can success or falling down. You can see an awkward between American and Japanese business meeting in this video.