Obstacles of Cross Cultural Communication in Business

Obstacles of Cross Cultural Communication in Business

In 21^st century, every organization wants to expand their business in all over the world. And international business are facing the new challenge to their communication structure due to major reforms brought about through internationalization, downsizing, mergers, acquisitions and joint ventures. So many organizations lose their business market due the lack of knowledge in cross cultural communicational skills even they have strong business strategies. The loss of clients/customers, poor working relations, stress, poor productivity and lack of co-operation are all by-products of poor cross cultural communication.

I think to make a effective cross cultural communication we must have focus on these points,

1. Language:

Language carries with it subliminal meaning and messages transmitted through vocabulary, stress, tone. The wrong use of words or emotions hidden behind phrases can send messages that affect staff self-perception, confidence and attitude. Critical languages cause poor interpersonal relationships and low self confidence whereas supportive language and tones has the opposite effect. These days, offices have native speakers of over 10-20 languages all under one roof. So it is important that the main language of the office is established. In addition, a company should ensure that all its employees are fully conversant in the main language.

2. Culture:

In today’s business world different people work together, who all are come from different cultural backgrounds, in terms of nationality, and, religions. They are difference in language, values, belief systems, business ethics, business practices, behaviour, etiquette and expectations. Cross cultural differences can negatively impact a business in a variety of ways, whether in team cohesion or in staff productivity.

3. Company Culture:

It is the internal culture of company such as, organizational chart, working style, delegation of authorities and other internal environments. For example, does the company view its different departments such as sales, production, administration and HR as closed or open systems? A closed system is one in which a total lack of synergy exists between a sales and production department due to structure and communication lies between the two. It is vital that team work, team building and team spirit are encouraged in order to create open systems. Many companies are primarily focused on the financial and strategic side of company operations. International businesses are now realising that many of their business problems have roots in man-management and communication.

4. Lack of communication:

Lack of communication is the major problem within most companies. It doesn’t mean lack of communication with staff is not solely due to lack of spoken dialogue. Rather it relates to access to information. For clear it, example, not giving feedback (negative or positive), informing staff of decisions and actions that will affect their roles or failure to properly communicate expectations are all ways in which information can be withheld from staff. This will eventually result in an alienated staff base that feels divided from the management and superiors. If mangers are too selective in providing information, this can cause suspicion and jealousy among staff and will eventually result in internal trouble instead of cohesion.

A management which does not and will not communicate and interact physically with staff demonstrates a lack of interest, trust and respects. Lack of communication in all its forms is unhealthy. Companies and mangers must be aware of how, what and to whom they are communicating.

In summary, the biggest hurdle to effective cross cultural communication is a reluctance to invest in the expertise and resources needed to overcome the problems as outlined above. Cross cultural hurdles are easily settle by giving some trainings over cross cultural communicational and provide proper information about other cultures.