CMA Foundation · Fundamentals of Business Laws and Business Communication · Intercultural and International Business Communication
Which of the following is the most effective first step for an Indian manager who is about to start working with a new team of colleagues from Japan?
The best first step is to learn about the Japanese team's cultural norms, etiquette and communication style in advance. Cultural awareness reduces misunderstandings and shows respect, whereas assuming others will adapt, using slang, or avoiding discussion of working practices tends to create confusion and conflict.
- ALearn about their cultural norms, etiquette and communication style beforehandCorrect
- BAssume that they will adopt Indian business practices quickly
- CUse slang and idioms so that the conversation sounds friendly
- DAvoid any conversation about work practices until problems arise
Explanation
Improving intercultural skills begins with cultural awareness: researching the other party's norms, etiquette and style reduces misunderstanding. Expecting the others to adapt is ethnocentric. Slang and idioms often do not translate and cause confusion. Avoiding discussion lets problems grow.
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