Abstract This paper discusses theories of crossculturalcommunication and applies them to Arab business communication. It uses a study of Kuwaiti businessmen's attitudes toward Western communication styles and activities. The paper reviews relevant literature on the subject.
From the Paper This report first examined the professional and scholarly literature on cross-cultural communication and its underpinning theory. The report contains ..."
Tags: crosscultural communication, Arab culture, Arab communication, Western communiction, Western Culture
Abstract This paper begins by addressing the challenges and barriers present in crossculturalcommunication. The paper then goes on to describe the research conducted in Penelope Benson's article, "The US-Japan Cross-Cultural Connection", as pertaining to the differences in Japanese and American styles of government. Next, the paper describes research conducted by Michelle LeBaron in her article, "CrossCulturalCommunication." The paper explains that the focal point of LeBaron's is that fate has a profound affect on cross-culturalcommunication. The paper lastly discusses Marcelle E. DuPraw's six fundamental patterns of cultural differences as examined in her article, "Working on Common Cross-CultureCommunication Challenges."
From the Paper "In an article by Penelope Benson, the President of New York-Japan International, Benson researches a group of individuals who were interning from Japan regarding their perspective on America. These individuals, having been raised from Japan, have only read and studied about America but have never actually experienced it in person. Benson notes that there will obviously be a barrier in the communication of these people. Japan's culture differs immensely from America's culture in countless ways. During the Japanese individuals' internships, Penelope "had asked the interns to consider themselves as Ambassadors of Japan in their everyday interactions with the Americans they encountered, many of whom might never before have met a Japanese national" (Benson, P., 1997). Benson complimented the individuals by saying that they took cross-cultural responsibility into play and challenged the cultural differences by studying and working on them. Among each individual's observations, he/she concluded that, "The diversity of the US populace leads to opposing opinions at all levels of government as to what issues are critical"
Tags: japan america multiculturalism, penelope benson, marcelle dupraw, michelle lebaron
Abstract The paper argues that inter-cultural dialogue leading to inter-cultural harmony is possible if people are willing to embrace the humility and open-mindedness essential for healthy dialogue between themselves and others whose backgrounds differ from their own. The paper shows how differences in perspective and in background do not have to lead to complications in cross-culturalcommunication. The paper stresses the importance of students adopting an open and enthusiastic mind-set, so they can overcome the challenges inherent in cross-culturalcommunication.
From the Paper "It is tempting to argue that cross-cultural narratives are not the sort of things that can be overcome by education - no matter how well-intentioned. For example, even after years of trying, there is still much confusion and uncertainty complicating the relationship between Christians and Muslims, between blacks and whites, between former colonial subjects and former colonial masters, in western society and, indeed, in other societies, as well; simply put, human ignorance is more resilient than most of us might have thought possible at one time. With this in mind, the idea that it might be possible to overcome cross-cultural barriers through a more inclusive and responsive dialogue is one that understandably needs to be defended vigorously from its many critics."
Abstract This paper is a critical analysis of cross-cultural politeness using the Brown and Levinson's model as a basis for defining and understanding politeness and applying it to three Asian languages: Chinese; Cantonese and Japanese.
From the Paper "What is politeness? If I propose that 'politeness' be used as pragmatically terminology, the preferable definition is to be found in appropriateness. It can be also said to be universal only in the sense that every society has some sort of norms for the appropriate behavior, although these norms are vary. The primary purpose of this paper is to provide a cross-cultural context by applying a well-known Brown and Levinson's model (1978 and revised in 1987), which has been applied in various settings, from casual services, encounters to EFL classrooms. However, Brown and Levinson's model (1978) has been criticized for being too geared to Western (especially American) notions of "independence" and, hence, for its limited applicability in Asian contexts. I have attempted in the following by first giving a general and brief account for Brown and Levinson's model (1978), and then try to apply and analyze the Brown and Levinson's model (1978) in three Asian languages: Chinese; Cantonese and Japanese. "
This paper discusses that no matter how enlightened the participants, inter-cultural harmony will always be hampered by differences in background and perspective.
Abstract In this article, the writer argues that inter-cultural or cross-cultural harmony will always be hampered by differences in background and perspective simply because human beings' (and how they react to the gestures and communicative strategies of others) are the most volatile and unpredictable variable of all when it comes to assessing the possible problems and rewards of a communication exchange. With that in mind, the paper explores why cross-culturalcommunication is so difficult. The paper also looks at some arguments which insist that inter-cultural exchanges can be harmonious and "worry-free" if enough training and education is provided. Finally, the writer concludes by reiterating why there will always be certain difficulties in cross-culturalcommunication and the paper finishes by suggesting that such tensions are just a "part of life" and must be accommodated to the fullest extent possible.
From the Paper ""Following this premise to its logical conclusion, it is clear that biological determinism, ecological factors, and simple evolution really are insufficient to wholly explain the nuances of each society - or at least to the satisfaction of a trained social scientist. Going further, each and every human being is a remarkably complex creature that will respond differently to essentially the same stimuli; consequently, it is impossible to avoid cross-cultural miscommunication because comments or gestures that someone else from the same culture finds tolerable might spark a highly unpleasant response from someone else who is also from that culture. In the end, the variables which constrain smooth cross-cultural communication are at least as numerable as there are people in the world.
"Still, some experts believe that cross-cultural communication does not have to be hampered by differences in background or by differences in perspective."
Abstract This paper discusses the relationship between various cultures, particularly in terms of how people communicate with one anther. In this article the writer describes how humans interact and communicate with each other in a situational frame - and looks at this issue from a Martian's perspective. It is noted that human affection is not just sent and received by one gender to the other.
From the Paper "In a world of cross-cultural societies, expertise in relationship building and acceptance is essential to succeed in a world of swift and profound cultural, political and economic changes. Some experts consider North America, to be a multi-nation and polytechnic continent that has accepted immigrants from countries around the world. It includes a diverse array of cultural traditions. Cultural identity is demonstrated through festivals, symbols, and landscape design. Multiple cultures must coexist, thus cultural conflicts must be resolved. Cross-cultural differences are relative to ethnic, national and religious differences."
Abstract Cultural misunderstandings have doubtless occurred since the beginning of nationhood. Perhaps when communications were primitive and the world was a very large place, they were relatively unimportant. However, today, when communication is instant, the opportunities for misapprehension to cause global disaster are unprecedented. This paper shows that in terms of business, understanding other cultures may mean the difference between economic well-being and disaster. With Turkey's projected full integration into the European Union and its status as contributor of a great many of Germany's foreign workers, Turkey and Germany are two nations that have a pressing need to be certain each understands the other, politically and economically. The paper shows that it is therefore essential that each nation's business community take measures to understand the other. Little specific research vis-a-vis Germany and Turkey is available; however, vast stores of information are available regarding the communication types to which each nations belongs. In this paper, these have been winnowed to find the most appropriate rubrics under which to propose Germany and Turkey should could find common ground via their methods of communication.
From the Paper "Another very common verbal experience for Arabic speakers-and almost unheard of for Christians, particularly in a business setting-is the expression of God's will and protection to begin or end a message. "In many cultures, such as the Arab, African, and Anglophone Caribbean countries, it is usually common to start a statement by thanking God, expecting God's blessing, or God's will" (Ihator, 2000). Westerners would ordinarily find this to be distasteful, an unwarranted expression of religiosity in a business setting, while to the Arabic speaker, it is simply an attempt to establish common ground by affirming the universal and the omnipotence of a shared belief in God. In fact, in "Muslim countries, the opening paragraph of a business letter may invoke Allah's blessing on the reader and the reader's family members- particularly when the business is family-operated" (Ihator, 2000)."
Abstract This paper discusses how to manage cross-cultural differences in the workplace so that the rights and sensibilities of each person are respected. It shows by example how a good manager can use determination and creativity to solve cross-cultural misunderstandings, but how it also requires a corporate culture that supports such managerial tasks. It considers how human nature makes us categorize automatically and how most workers and indeed most managers are unaware of the ways in which they may either discriminate against or try to suppress differences in today's multi-cultural workforce.
From the Paper "Although it is a clich? of the business world, it is nonetheless also true that no business that neglects ? or abuses ? its workers can prosper for long. Badly trained, badly prepared, or badly treated workers do not do their best ? and indeed, why should they? The best way to get the most out of a worker is to ensure that that worker feels appreciated and respected, and it is the job of those in supervisorial and managerial positions who must ensure that an environment of mutual respect in instigated and maintained."
Tags: business, world, worker, manager, employees, supervisors, communication
Abstract This paper explains that Dr. Geert Hofstede outlines the issues at play in communication and their reflection in a variety of national circumstances, professing the old adage, "When in Rome, do as the Romans do". The author points out that the UAE, Mexico and Spain differ greatly from each other in their approaches to the workplace, home life, politics and social standards, but each possess the ability to respect the other. The paper stresses that success is ultimately obtained by deferral to the other culture for the sake of one's ability to communicate and extending cultural niceties such as dressing conservatively in Spain and not reminding the Mexicans of their tortured history of external control.
From the Paper "Men hug, time is relaxed, and because of the vivacious atmosphere, business negotiations starkly contrast those of the UAE, and instead of embracing silence, redefine hectic chaos. Many people will talk at once, and food is almost always involved. Communications, like the Spanish lifestyle, embrace length and quality; they are not efficient or up-to-the-minute like the hyperspeed world would expect. Business meetings may incorporate the four official languages of the Spanish, although Catalan and English are frequently deferred to for corporate use. The atmosphere, though friendly, is also rift with social processes constantly at play; colleagues of different company rank do not mix together at social functions, even if the event is a business dinner."
Abstract Although many professionals and business entities appear to have developed a knack for cross-culturalcommunication, the truth is that successful communication is the result of a well thought-out strategy without which significant trouble may occur resulting in loss of revenue and credibility of organizations and their products.
Abstract The paper discusses workplace and organizational culture as it would be experienced by an American company operating in Japan. The paper also examines the unique experiences to which an American employee working in Japan would be exposed to vis-a-vis workplace culture and practices. The paper recommends the acquisition of some deeper cross-culturalcommunication skills that extend beyond the workplace.
Outline:
Abstract
Introduction
Negotiation & Culture Physical Space & Time in the Workplace
Conclusion
From the Paper "For an American firm operating in Japan there are many considerations that must be made beyond the operational level. Perhaps the most important are at the organizational level where customs, culture, and host-national considerations must be made. This is because the subject of intercultural communication has become not just a politically correct topic in today's increasingly diverse societies, but a matter of necessity given the spread of the global economy and the degree of economic integration which finds companies now moving into foreign countries such as Japan where the Asian culture and work ethic becomes a vital consideration."
Abstract This paper discusses cross-culturalcommunication within a classroom setting in Australia. It describes the ideal classroom set-up, including seating plans. The paper then presents the lesson plans for the special needs student, Neal, a six year old Maori boy. It specifically focuses on cultural considerations. The paper presents the lesson plan template.
Table of Contents:
Description of classroom context
Justification for Design of Lesson Plans
Cultural Considerations
Lesson Plan Template For The Three Lesson Plans
From the Paper For Maori children their assimilation into the Australian school system must be supported by scaffolding strategies that provide the critical links to their cultural frame of reference. This is well-documented in the existing literature specifically on creating scaffolding strategies for children who are learning a second language (Brach, Fraser, Paez, 2005). The use of scaffolding must also encompass the cultural norms, values and beliefs of the student, including their parents as critical members of the process as well. Participation from parents is crucial to ensure the students have a sense of security and trust in the foreign and often intimidating concepts being presented by teachers in a new, unfamiliar environment (Zhu, 2007). There is also the need to create a series of learning opportunities that concentrate on using both verbal and visual skills to strengthen the overall learning experience (Vance, Fitzpatrick, 2007). The use of class projects including the development of posters, alphabet books and the development of stories all are excellent for creating the necessary framework for students to learn in while also giving them a sense of ownership for their learning outcomes. Ultimately it is in the use of these specific learning projects, serving as frameworks upon which scaffolding can be applied (Wallace, 1994) which gives students an opportunity to learn while keeping the lessons learned in the context of their own cultures (Bryant, Metz, Sheehan, Vigier, 2006)."
Abstract This paper provides a chapter by chapter review of D. Hendon, R. Hendon and P. Herbig's 1999 book, "Cross-Cultural Business Negotiations." The paper discusses how the authors define negotiations and provides an overview of what they refer to as the "art of negotiations." It discusses the focus of each chapter and how the authors express and explain their arguments in each chapter.
From the Paper "The authors also proclaim there are two primary forms of contract that can result from cross-cultural negotiations. These include an explicit and detailed contract that outlines every contingency contained within a contractual arrangement; a second type of contract is one that is "implicit" in nature, one that is often based on "oral arrangements" or agreements that allows parties to address problems through personal relationships and greater trust or intimacy (Hendon, Hendon & Herbig, p. 111). It is important for business people to recognize the significance a contract holds when signed; for example, from an American or Western perspective, a contract may represent a binding agreement that summarizes the collaborative negotiations achieved with a second or third party. For others a contract may symbolize an opportunity to create more intimate, personal relationships with members of other countries and cultures. Among the Chinese as noted, a contract symbolizes the start of, rather than the closing, of business negotiations with another party (Hendon, Hendon & Herbig, p. 112) Understanding these differences will lead to better success in the negotiation process."
Abstract This paper examines Procter and Gamble's (P&G) cross-cultural adaptation strategies. The paper claims that cross-cultural adaptation is essential for any company that wants to survive the globalization process. The adaptation required is to both the internal and the external environment. The paper includes graphs to illustrate this. It concludes that P&G's power to create successful brands for diverse populations worldwide is one of the most valuable keys of success for the giant manufacturer.
Outline:
Company Overview
Cross-cultural Adaptations
Adaptation Weaknesses
From the Paper "The company provides products for a wide range of customers: mid-income (Tide), higher income (Ariel), male (Gillette), female (Always), normal hair (Herbal essences), special care (Pantene), special need (Head and Shoulders), etc. The product portfolio diversification is one of the company's growth strategies. This is done by acquiring new products, such as Gillette or by engaging in strategic partnership, such as the one with Wrigley Co. One other growth strategy is innovation for existing products: new flavors, new recipes, new effects, new packaging, and so one. Finally, one other strategy is to keep fresh the customer's awareness through permanent promotional activity."
Abstract The writer of this paper critically analyzes the ways in which De Munch and Korotayev start out by explaining that it is difficult to research across cultures because of "cross-cultural pollenization" that is, one culture tends to absorb some traits of the other. They point out that without adequate controls, the research can give both false confirmations of the hypothesis as well as false negatives. This paper is a negative critique of Cultural Units in Cross-Cultural Research.
From the Paper "The first group might look culturally diverse at first: 4 Spanish; 4 Iraqi; 1 Russian; 1 Estonian; 1 Javanese; 1 Ganda; one Greek; one Maronite-Lebanese. However, this group had significant cultural similarities, which the authors of course knew because they contrived the group. Some of the clerics were Catholic and therefore celibate. Others were Moslem and allowed more than one wife. It is hard to imagine how this example sheds any light on either cross-cultural studies or statistical and research methods."
