Intercultural communication in international business: Basic concepts

The globalization of the world economy has created a need to work with people from different countries and cultures. Therefore, when doing business, whether selling, negotiating, or working in multicultural teams, strong intercultural communication skills are increasingly important. This applies not only to negotiations with a Japanese or Chinese supplier but also with our neighbors in the European Union.
AESC (Executive Selection Agency) sponsored a survey of executives that highlighted the importance of intercultural communication. The survey indicated that "the cultural integration of businesses in different national contexts represents the greatest challenge for business leaders." Respondents agreed on five essential intercultural communication skills: adaptability to new situations, international strategy, the ability to motivate international teams, sensitivity to different cultures, and international experience.
To achieve effective intercultural communication, it's essential to understand other cultures. This begins with understanding our own culture: our value systems, our negotiation styles. By recognizing what distinguishes us from other cultures, we gain a deeper understanding of the rest of the world. Ultimately, if you don't know where you're starting from, you don't know where you're going.
It should not be forgotten that reading about the culture of other countries, experiencing it, and even learning their language will promote this intercultural communication.
However, the most important element for achieving effective intercultural communication is "active listening." If you can clearly perceive what the other person is trying to tell you, you've already won half the battle. It's not just about listening in the literal sense; it's also about interpreting the hidden meaning of words, understanding the historical context of the conversation, and even observing the other person's gestures. In some cultures, what isn't said is just as important as what is!