Communicating in the global world
This video identifies the challenges to effective communication in the global marketplace. Communication across language, cultural, time and technology barriers can be challenging. A significant amount of research needs to be conducted before a company can engage in successful global business ventures. It is necessary to examine thoroughly differences in gestures, expressions and dialect when communicating across cultures so as not to offend anyone. Understanding time zones is also important, as they force organizations to plan carefully in advance in order to develop, translate and deliver information in a timely manner.

Questions

1. Language can be a barrier to effective communication. What steps can a company take to minimize language barriers across borders?

2. Cultural differences need to be considered when communicating across borders. What characteristics of a country's culture need to be researched to ensure business success across borders?

3. This video mentions that some companies have trusted contacts in a country they wish to do business with, while other companies rely on a significant amount of research to learn more about cultural characteristics, etc. What method do you feel is most effective for gathering useful, accurate and up-to-date information regarding cultural issues?