How do you adjust communication for international business?

2 Choose your medium

Depending on the situation and the message, you may need to choose different communication mediums, such as email, phone, video call, or face-to-face meeting. Each medium has its own advantages and disadvantages, such as speed, convenience, cost, and quality. For example, email is good for sending information and documents, but it can be easily misinterpreted or ignored. Phone is good for quick and personal conversations, but it can be affected by poor connection or background noise. Video call is good for visual and interactive communication, but it can be awkward or distracting. Face-to-face meeting is good for building trust and relationships, but it can be expensive and time-consuming. Choose your medium wisely and be flexible if needed.

3 Use clear and simple language

When communicating with people who speak a different language than you, or who have a different level of proficiency in a common language, use clear and simple language. Avoid jargon, slang, idioms, metaphors, and acronyms that may not be familiar or translated well. Use short and simple sentences and paragraphs, and check your spelling and grammar. Use active voice and positive words, and avoid ambiguity and sarcasm. Repeat and summarize key points, and ask for confirmation and feedback. If you are not sure about something, ask for clarification or explanation.

4 Be respectful and sensitive

When communicating with people from different cultures, be respectful and sensitive to their values, beliefs, and customs. For example, some cultures have different norms for greeting, addressing, and thanking people. Some cultures have different views on time, punctuality, and deadlines. Some cultures have different attitudes toward conflict, criticism, and feedback. Some cultures have different expectations for participation, decision-making, and leadership. Be aware of these differences and adapt your communication style accordingly. Do not assume or impose your own culture on others, and do not judge or stereotype them. Be open-minded and curious, and learn from them.

5 Seek feedback and improvement

Communication is a two-way process that requires constant feedback and improvement. After you communicate with someone from another country, seek feedback on how effective and appropriate your communication was. Ask them what they liked and disliked, what they understood and misunderstood, and what they suggest for improvement. Be humble and willing to learn from your mistakes and successes. Also, give feedback to others on how they communicated with you, and offer suggestions for improvement. Be constructive and supportive, and avoid blaming or shaming. By seeking feedback and improvement, you can enhance your communication skills and your international business relationships.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?