Communication Across Cultures

Language is often the least of our problems when communicating interculturally.  At least when we speak different languages we can employ interpreters and translators, and we expect a degree of miscommunication.  When speaking “the same” language, however, we assume the same rules of engagement.  Culture, however, impacts what we talk about and how we talk about it.  It also determines how we interpret the messages we receive, in whatever medium.

IOR’s half-day and full-day Communication Across Cultures programs address these issues of verbal and non-verbal face-to-face communication, as well as the many challenges of virtual communication in various media.

We apply cultural dimensions to:

• Provide a framework for style comparison
• Create strategies for effective intercultural communication in a variety of challenging situations
• Examine the issues of dealing primarily with non-native speakers of our native language and how we can better manage the communication deficiencies created by second language issues, especially as they impact virtual communication

To be truly effective, everyone communicating internationally needs to be aware of the challenges to intercultural communication. IOR’s Communication Across Cultures programs provide the practical tools for smoother connection worldwide.