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from Part III - Developing Global Management Skills
MANAGEMENT CHALLENGE
People have often observed that communication is the essence of good management. It lies at the heart of effective organizations. In view of this, it is surprising how difficult it can be communicating with others, especially across cultures. We may unintentionally come across as impatient, condescending, and sometimes just rude. From a managerial standpoint, such behavior serves only to erect barriers to organizational success. To communicate effectively across cultures, managers need to understand the fundamental influences on both effective and ineffective communication, as well as strategies for reaching a higher level of mutual understanding between people.
Chapter outline
▪ Interpersonal communication page 191
▪ Cultural screens on interpersonal communication 195
▪ Cognition and communication 196
▪ Communication protocols 206
▪ Manager’s notebook: Communicating across cultures 215
▪ Summary points 221
Applications
6.1 Dinner in Prague 191
6.2 The fourth floor 199
6.3 Native speakers 201
6.4 Offensive behavior at Ain Shams 202
6.5 Scheduling appointments 205
6.6 Privacy and taxes 208
6.7 Nigerian communities 210
6.8 Making apologies 212
6.9 Emotional displays 213
A different language is not just a dictionary of words, sounds, and syntax. It is a different way of interpreting reality, refined by the generations that developed the language.
Federico Fellini Filmmaker and director, ItalyWhatever the culture, there’s a tongue in our head. Some use it, some hold it, and some bite it. For the French it is a rapier, thrusting in attack; the English, using it defensively, mumble a vague and confusing reply; for Italians and Spaniards it is an instrument of eloquence; Finns and East Asians throw you with their constructive silence. Silence is a form of speech, so don’t interrupt it.
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