Communicating Across Cultures

What is Culture?

Culture is a learned set of assumptions that shape our perceptions of the world, and of appropriate values, norms, attitudes, and behaviours.

It is based upon learned ideas about:

·       Race

·       Ethnicity

·       Religious Practices

·       Sexual Orientation

·       Physical appearance and ability

·       Regional and national characteristics

Case Study: Canada

Canada is a cultural polyglot. It has over two hundred different ethnicities living within its borders. This results in a great deal of diversity from language to architecture.

We will look at how culture impacts on business as cultural assumptions and expectations determine both the form and the content of every business interaction. 
High Context vs low Context cultures – explained.

Values, Beliefs and Practices

Values and beliefs are intrinsic to cultural understanding. Although many values are universal there are equally many which are not. It is important to understand these discrepancies in both personal and business interactions.

Non-Verbal Communication

Communication that is made without the use of the spoken or written word and is culturally specific.

Body Language:

·       Gestures

·       Space

·       Touch

·       Spatial Arrangements

Time: the methods by which time is kept and the approach to punctuality differs between cultures.  It is best to understand that some cultures place different emphasis on time.

Oral Communication

Oral Communication is also open to cultural interpretation. We will examine the following areas:

·       Understatement and Exaggeration

·       Compliments

·       Silence

Writing to International Audiences

Understand the differences in expectations of formality when writing to international or varied audiences.

With so many cultures, how can I know enough to communicate?

·       Awareness that cultural expectations are not necessarily right or wrong.

·       Remain flexible and open to change

·       Sensitivity to verbal and nonverbal behaviour

How Can I make my Documents Bias Free?

Make Language non-sexist:

·       Words and Phrases

·       Job Titles

·       Pronouns

Making Language Non-Racist and Non-ageist

·       Do not refer to age or race unless necessary.

·       Use PC or preferred terms to describe a group

·       Avoid terms that suggest they are unusual

Disabilities and Diseases:

·       Describe the person not the condition

·       Avoid negative terms

Choosing Bias free photos

Exercises