Communication pt. 2

Question 1

A common challenge in international business settings—and a two-way process.

Answer 1

Language barriers

Question 2

10 Strategies for Overcoming Language Barriers

Answer 2

1. Speak slowly and clearly.
2. Ask for clarification.
3. Frequently check for understanding.
4. Avoid idioms.
5. Be careful of jargon.
6. Define the basics of business.
7. Be specific.
8. Choose your medium of communication effectively.
9. Provide information via multiple
   channels.
10. Be patient.

Question 3

Focus on clearly enunciating and slowing down your speech.

Answer 3

Speak slowly and clearly

Question 4

Check both that you’ve understood what’s been said and that others have fully understood you.

Answer 4

Frequently check for understanding

Question 4

Spend time early in your communication defining what these mean to you and others. Invest in building a shared vocabulary

Answer 4

Define the basics of business

Question 4

As a good general rule, if the phrase requires knowledge of other information—be it a game or metaphor—recognize that this may make your communication more difficult to be understood.

Answer 4

Avoid idioms

Question 4

Watch the use of TLAs (Three Letter Abbreviations) and other organizational language that may not be understood by others. If you use them, provide in parentheses a description of what these are so others can learn to use the same language you do.

Answer 4

Be careful of jargon/s

Question 5

Spell out your expectations and deadlines clearly.

Answer 5

Be specific

Question 5

If you are not 100% sure you’ve understood what others say, politely…

Answer 5

Ask for clarification

Question 6

Carefully choose your form of communication (phone or video conference, email, instant message, etc.). When a message is complex and complicated or there is tension or conflict that needs to be resolved, switch to another medium.

Answer 6

Choose your medium of communication effectively

Question 7

Follow phone calls with emails that summarize what’s been said. When possible, provide presentations, agendas, etc. in advance so those working in their non-native language can get familiar with materials.

Answer 7

Provide information via multiple channels

Question 8

Cross-cultural communication takes more time. If not at all times, certainly initially you cannot expect your communication to occur with the same speed and ease as when you are communicating with someone from your own culture.

Answer 8

Be patient