Exchanging Of Cultural Differences

Speaker’s note

The word Intercultural communication can be defined as the process of interacting with people from diversified cultures and backgrounds. It can be done through negotiating or mediating and exchanging of cultural differences via language, verbal and non verbal gestures and others. For instance, In Australia people greet each other by shaking hands or hugging, while in China, it is different. People there may bow or nod, in order to greet each other, instead of shaking hands.

When talking about culture, China is diverse in nature, with diversified language and ethnicity. There are fifty six ethnical groups in total, who have their own specific language. It is influential to the country’s physical geography, as people share different culture. China is diverse, in terms of people, culture, religion, administrative nature and many more. The land and its geography define the people’s culture. Moreover, the working culture of Chinese people is very interesting. People are expected to be well prepared at the meetings with power point presentation materials in strictly black and white colors.

Small talks are considered to be highly important in the beginning of any meeting. Before making any deal, it is important to establish a strong bond or relationship. Maintaining calm and composure is seen as a vital component during the meeting hours as showing emotion or causing embarrassment can have a negative impact for any business negotiation. Chinese people usually enter a meeting room in a hierarchical order, that is, based on the position they are working. One needs to be curious but calm at the same time. Punctuality is very important as being late can be a serious offence in their business culture.

According to Christine Raynaud, the CEO of Morgan Phillips Greater China, the business culture of Chinese people is very entrepreneurial and the change rate is higher. The companies have more international scope and expansion. Employees have good leadership qualities and are hard working. Organizational leaders are transparent in nature and communicate with their employees quiet often. Corporate ethics and norms are clear with good management and organizational structure.

Further she mentioned that the workers are committed to the community and environment. Workplace policies and procedures are fair with good promotional opportunities. She is happy with the company values and workplace benefits. The environment of working is diversified with good social activities which value human dimensions of the organization.

In this globalized world, English language is widely used, while communicating with international people. Australian organizations have more international workers in comparison with Chinese organizations, due to this major challenge. Moreover, Chinese people prefer mixing with their own country people or those belonging to their community or culture, which creates a cultural gap. Linguistic issues are considered to be a big issue, in case of China.

Chinese business leaders often face issues when they compete with the global market. Therefore, they need to adapt the communication styles of other countries, in order to succeed in the global platform. These issues give rise to miscommunications which are to be avoided. Thus, the use of non verbal communications and gestures should be minimal.

Each and every culture has a unique value system, context and style of communication. Australian people are not much formal and thus their greetings are relaxed and casual in nature. Aussies prefer using first names, even at initial meetings. The appointments are easily scheduled as compared to China and it is considered to be a vital part before any meeting. Generally, the meetings are relaxed in nature. Being punctual is highly appreciated. Aussies arrive early so that they don’t have to keep anybody waiting. They prefer small talks and more work. Their approach is direct and they do not like much detailing.