Intercultural Communications

Intercultural Communication

Introduction

According to Hynes (2011), in 2008 over 30 percent of the United States' Gross Domestic Product (GDP) was attributed to international trade. Many American companies trade internationally. In addition, many international organizations are headquartered in the United States. Also, many foreign businesses have operations within the United States or import products into the United States. In order to be successful in any business environment, one must be able to communicate effectively. When dealing with global business, one must be an effective intercultural communicator. It is important for those involved in intercultural communication to avoid ethnocentrism, which is "the belief that one's own cultural group is superior" (Ober, 2003, p. 50). One must embrace ethno-relativism, which is consists of acceptance of acceptance, adaptation, and integration of other cultures. Although, language is important, effective intercultural communicators have to focus on nonverbal communication (Hynes, 2011 & Ober, 2003).

Nonverbal Sensitivity

Communicating effectively in intercultural business environments is more than just speaking the language. As is true in all communication, nonverbal communication makes up the majority of communication in intercultural communication. Intercultural communicators must be nonverbally sensitive. When communicating cross-culturally one must pay special attention to greetings, dress, space, touch, posture, gestures, and food (Hynes, 2011).

Greetings

Greetings may vary from culture to culture. It is important for a cross-cultural communicator to understand the implications of their greetings to the other culture. In most cultures, a handshake is an acceptable greeting. However, the meaning of the grip of a handshake varies from culture to culture. Also, there are different greetings that are more effective in some cultures. For example, in Japan older businesspersons bow to each other (Hynes, 2011).

Dress

In most cultures, a suit is viewed as appropriate attire while conducting business. However, different cultures wear different types of dress for socializing. Many cultures prefer conservative dress in public. In the Middle East, women are fully covered. Therefore, it is important to dress appropriately while interacting with other cultures (Hynes, 2011).

Gestures

Using gestures, while communicating cross-culturally, is very risky. Many gestures that one may find acceptable practice in their culture may be very unacceptable or even insulting in another culture. According to Ober (2003), an example of this is the OK sign. In America, this sign is perfectly acceptable and harmless. In France, it means you are a zero. In Brazil and in Mediterranean countries, it is an obscene gesture