You can communicate with people from other cultures.
To build good relationships with people from other cultures, it's important to know how to communicate.Learning about their culture can make things easier.If you have the knowledge of how to communicate effectively, you can share it with others.
Step 1: You should learn about the culture before.
A small amount of knowledge can go a long way.If you have time before embarking on a trip or meeting with someone from another culture, try to learn the basics of that culture.Information on this can be found on the internet from sources such as the National Center for Cultural Competence.
Step 2: Expect some differences.
Different cultures will speak at different volumes, be more or less direct in showing emotion, and exhibit other differences in communication.Communication with people from other cultures will expose you to differences that you weren't aware of.
Step 3: Understand how things are arranged.
There may be rules about social hierarchy that you are not used to in a different culture.In a culture where men and women are expected to communicate equally, you may have to interact with someone who is from a different culture.You may be communicating with someone who expects a younger person to let an older person do most of the talking, while you expect people across age groups to communicate equally.
Step 4: It's a good idea to be upfront about problems in communication.
Say something if you think someone doesn't understand you.Don't be rude or offensive, but explain the problem.Since there may be bigger problems later, it is better to be upfront about the problem in communication.Say something like, "I'm not sure I understood you" if you think you didn't understand what someone meant.If you think someone doesn't understand you, say something like: "Let's review things to make sure we're all on the same page."
Step 5: Don't be hostile and tolerant.
Each culture has its own set of dominant values.When communicating with people from other cultures, there may be signs of these.It is not the time to judge people based on their differences.Allow them to be what they are, and respect them.You may be able to learn something new.If cultural differences are brought up in a conversation, be tolerant and open-minded.Say something like: "Yes, it's true that many Americans take work seriously, and there are a lot of reasons for that."Why don't you tell me more about your culture?
Step 6: Be patient, be patient.
Communication with people from other cultures can be rewarding but also difficult.Not everything will come out perfect or fully understood.Ask them to be patient with you.
Step 7: If necessary, speak slowly.
Don't treat others as though they do not understand.Raising your voice can be seen as rude.If there are difficulties in communicating with people from other cultures, don't treat them like unintelligent people.Communication difficulties arise from cultural differences.
Step 8: Don't be foolish.
Use formal modes of address until it is clear that you don't need to use first names.By first and last name alone, with a title such as "Mr." or "sir," using formal pronouns, if they exist in the language used for communicating.
Step 9: It is a good idea to brush up on foreign language skills.
If you want to communicate with people who speak a different language, you should know a few basic phrases.You can still learn a foreign language even if your situation doesn't require you to.The basics include: "Hello," "Thank you," and "How are you?"A phrase book or electronic device can be used to find phrases you don't know.When others are using your language, be patient.
Step 10: If you are in the linguistic minority, use the dominant language.
If you want to communicate with people who speak a different language, try to use their language first.Even if you can't say much more than "hello" and "how are you?" in their language, the gesture is appreciated.
Step 11: Slang and profanity are not good.
Unless you are sure how it is used in another culture, this is important.You may be perceived as offensive if you use non-standard or obscene language.Unless you are absolutely sure you know how to use the language correctly, it is best to avoid it.
Step 12: You can use "open-handed" gestures.
Common gestures such as pointing with an index finger and giving the "ok" sign can be seen as offensive in some cultures.If you don't know which gestures could be mistaken, stick to open-handed gestures.If you need to point something out, try using your whole hand.
Step 13: The first thing to do is assume a formal stance.
Keep your feet on the floor, sit up straight, don't use your arms too much, and otherwise keep your posture conservative.Certain postures can be seen as offensive to others.It is rude to show your foot in some cultures, so you would not want to cross your legs in a way that your sole sticks out.You can follow suit if it becomes clear that a less formal posture is acceptable.
Step 14: Know the rules regarding touching.
When communicating, some cultures expect more physical contact than others.Some cultures are more willing to shake hands than others.If another culture is less physical than you are used to, don't take it as offensive.If you think you are being violated, it's an exception.Let others know if you are not comfortable.It is advisable to be conservative with the way you communicate with people from other cultures.If they use more physical contact, you should follow suit.
Step 15: Understand how to avoid eye contact.
In some cultures, looking another person in the eye when you speak is seen as a sign of honesty and interest.It may be seen as disrespectful or a sign of sexual interest in other cultures.Some cultures think that looking a superior person in the eye is a sign of respect.
Step 16: The facial expressions will be different.
Different cultures use facial expressions differently.Americans may smile frequently, while other cultures may see excessive smiling as a sign of shallowness.People from other cultures are more open with their face when communicating with you.If you notice, they don't show much expression at all.Communication is not verbal, no matter what culture it is in.You can ask questions to clarify if you need to, and focus on the content of what is being said.If someone smiles or laughs at something you say, you may need to say "Actually, I'm being serious."
Step 17: The situation requires some personal space.
Some cultures need more personal space than others.It is not the case that people from another culture are trying to avoid you or invade your space if you are communicating with them.Follow their instructions regarding personal space and communicate as best you can.