As the world is more and more becoming a ‘global village’, meaning that goods, people and ideas move more easily and frequently between places, it has become of great importance for successful businesses in the international arena to employ a range of staff that are able to communicate effectively with people from different national and cultural backgrounds. It has been said that ‘effective communication is the hallmark of dynamic, productive leadership’ (Fisher, 2002). Furthermore, a dynamic leader is one who not only takes responsibility for what he or she says, but for how it is heard and experienced by others. By definition, communication is the exchange of thoughts, messages or information. More importantly however, our oral communications are revelations of who or where we are in any given moment, whether directly or indirectly expressed. An effective communicator is described to be a person ‘who has the ability to detect and use such revelations to achieve a mutually beneficial outcome’ (ibid.) for all parties involved.
In the following, this essay aims to establish what steps an individual can take to become a more effective communicator with a range of people from different countries. Firstly, we will be looking at the meta-dimension of culture, where people’s different behaviours, values and worldviews are formed to better understand sources for potential conflict between different cultures. Then, we move on to the interpersonal dimension of communication by introducing the Johari window model, which illustrates relationships in terms of awareness. Following from this, we will be looking at individual’s different learning styles and motivational factors which have an influence on interpersonal work relations. Subsequently, more concrete advice for effective communication, such as how to behave assertively in negotiations, is given.
Inhaltsverzeichnis (Table of Contents)
- Introduction
- Cultural differences
- The Johari window model
- The importance of cultural roots
- The importance of learning styles
- Motivational factors in interpersonal relations
- How to communicate more effectively
- Conclusion
Zielsetzung und Themenschwerpunkte (Objectives and Key Themes)
This essay aims to explore the steps individuals can take to become effective communicators with people from different countries. It examines the impact of cultural differences, interpersonal dynamics, and individual learning styles on communication. The essay explores the importance of developing a global mindset, understanding cultural nuances, and adapting communication strategies to diverse cultural contexts. It also emphasizes the role of the Johari Window model in building trust and improving communication.
- The importance of cultural awareness and understanding
- The role of the Johari Window model in interpersonal communication
- The influence of learning styles and motivational factors on communication
- Practical strategies for effective intercultural communication
- The impact of cultural differences on business and personal relationships
Zusammenfassung der Kapitel (Chapter Summaries)
- Introduction: This chapter sets the context for the essay by discussing the importance of effective communication in a globalized world. It defines effective communication and highlights its significance for successful business operations in an international context.
- Cultural differences: This chapter explores the impact of cultural differences on communication. It discusses the concept of a "global mindset" and the importance of being open-minded and culturally competent. The chapter also introduces the work of Hofstede and Trompenaars, who have studied cultural differences across nations.
- The Johari window model: This chapter introduces the Johari Window model as a tool for understanding relationships and improving communication. It explains the different quadrants of the model and their implications for interpersonal dynamics.
- The importance of cultural roots: This chapter discusses the importance of understanding cultural roots and how they shape individuals' values, beliefs, and behaviors. It examines the concept of enculturation and its role in shaping perceptions and communication styles.
Schlüsselwörter (Keywords)
This essay focuses on the key concepts of intercultural communication, cultural differences, communication styles, learning styles, motivation, the Johari Window model, and effective communication strategies. The primary focus is on understanding and bridging cultural gaps to achieve effective communication in a globalized world.
- Citation du texte
- Florian Mayer (Auteur), 2003, Effective interpersonal communications in a multi-cultural work environment, Munich, GRIN Verlag, https://www.grin.com/document/22617
