Another communication challenge facing leaders is overcoming communication barriers created by working with people from different cultures. Leaders typically communicate with people from other countries and with a more diverse group of people in their own country. Because of this workplace diversity, leaders who can manage a multicultural and cross-cultural work force are in strong demand. Here we give some guidelines for overcoming a variety of cross-cultural communication barriers.

Be sensitive to the fact that cross-cultural communication barriers exist. When communicating with a person of a different cultural background, solicit feedback to minimize cross-cultural barriers. Challenge your cultural assumptions. The assumptions we make about cultural groups can create communication barriers. Show respect for all workers. The same behavior that promotes good cross-cultural relations in general helps overcome communication barriers.

Use straightforward language, and speak slowly and clearly. When working with people who do not speak your language fluently, speak in an easy-to-understand manner. When the situation is appropriate, speak in the language of the people from another culture. Americans who can speak another language are at a competitive advantage when dealing with businesspeople who speak that language. Observe cross-cultural differences in etiquette. Violating rules of etiquette with-out explanation can erect immediate communication barriers.

Do not be diverted by style, accent, grammar, or personal appearance. Although these superficial factors are all related to business success, they are difficult to interpret when judging a person from another culture. Be sensitive to differences in nonverbal communication. A person from another culture may misinterpret nonverbal signals. Be attentive to individual differences in appearance. A major cross-cultural insult is to confuse the identity of people because they are members of the same race or ethnic group.