Cross-Cultural Communication

Where you come from affects everything about you, including how you speak!
In an ever-connected world, communicating across cultures is more common than ever before.

So how do we clearly convey our messages to those from linguistic and interpersonal
backgrounds different from our own?

The ability to communicate effectively across cultural boundaries is essential for success in
many areas, from business to politics to social interactions.
New York and DC Speech Coaching is thrilled to be one of the only companies providing this
unique, critical training.

What’s cross-cultural communication?

Cross-cultural communication is the process of identifying cultural differences in speaking
habits, learning to recognize one’s personal influences and behaviors, and using that knowledge to communicate differently in a variety of settings.
Misunderstandings can occur when individuals assume that their cultural norms and values are universal, or when they fail to recognize and understand the cultural assumptions of others.

Cross-cultural communication emphasizes understanding why you’ve developed certain
speaking habits and how to understand those of colleagues and friends. Perhaps you have a
friend from another country who never gives a straight answer, even if you ask him a direct
question. Or perhaps you work with a colleague who emphasizes building rapport for the first
fifteen minutes of a meeting before starting a presentation. There are countless examples of
culturally influenced speaking habits around us.

Cross-cultural communication training examines the differences between yourself and those
around you so that you can communicate effectively and efficiently, without causing offense or misunderstanding.

Language Differences

One of the biggest challenges of cross-cultural communication is overcoming the language
barrier. Even when two people speak the same language, there can be differences in accent,
vocabulary, nonverbal communication, and idiomatic expressions that can make communication difficult. What may be considered polite or respectful in one culture may be considered rude or offensive in another.

Core Values

Cultural differences in values, beliefs, and attitudes can also make communication difficult. For example, in some cultures, it is considered impolite to look someone directly in the eye, while in others, avoiding eye contact can be seen as a sign of dishonesty or disrespect. Similarly, some cultures value directness and honesty in communication, while others place a greater emphasis on politeness and diplomacy. It is critical to recognize core speaking values to communicate effectively with peers and colleagues.

Relationships and Community

Cross-cultural communication is critical to building strong relationships and creating a sense of community. Understanding and respecting different cultures can help break down barriers and promote understanding and harmony between different groups of people. Cross-cultural
communication skills can also help individuals to be more open-minded, empathetic, and
understanding of different perspectives, which can enhance their personal and professional
relationships.

What’s covered in cross-cultural communication coaching?

Our coaching examines some of the many cultural differences that can affect communication
and trains you to speak with these differences in mind. Some of the most common include:

• Language: The language we speak is one of the most fundamental aspects of our
  culture, and it can profoundly impact how we communicate. For example, some
  languages have different levels of formality and politeness built into them, and the use of
  certain words or phrases can be seen as more or less respectful depending on the
  context.
• Nonverbal Communication: Nonverbal communication, including gestures, facial
  expressions, and body language, can also vary widely between cultures. For example, a
  thumbs-up gesture may be seen as positive or neutral in some cultures, while in others it
  may be seen as offensive.
• Values and Beliefs: Cultural differences in values and beliefs can also affect
  communication. For example, in some cultures, it is considered impolite to interrupt
  someone, while in others, interrupting is seen as a sign of engagement and interest.
• Time Orientation: Different cultures also have different attitudes toward time. Some
  cultures place a greater emphasis on punctuality and efficiency, while others are more
  relaxed about time and prioritize relationships and social interactions over schedules.
• Social Hierarchy: The way that social hierarchy is structured can also affect
  communication. In some cultures, there is a clear hierarchy based on age, gender, or
  social status, and communication is expected to reflect this hierarchy. In other cultures,
  there may be a more egalitarian approach to communication, with everyone expected to
  participate equally.

Who can benefit from cross-cultural communication training?

Cross-cultural communication is essential for anyone who interacts with people from different backgrounds, which is just about everyone in today’s world!

• Employees of multinational companies may require cross-cultural communication skills
  to manage their diverse workforce, communicate effectively with customers and clients
  from different cultures, and successfully expand into new international markets.
• International students need cross-cultural communication skills to adjust to their new
  environment, interact effectively with their peers, and succeed academically.
• Diplomats require cross-cultural communication skills to build relationships with people
  from different countries and negotiate effectively across cultures.
• Healthcare workers need cross-cultural communication skills to understand their
  patients' cultural beliefs and values and provide culturally appropriate care.
• Educators require cross-cultural communication skills to understand their students'
  cultural backgrounds and create inclusive learning environments.
• And more!
  Everyone can benefit from understanding their cultural speaking habits and how to recognize
  those of their friends and co-workers.

Private Sessions

Let us add another tool to your toolbox!

In private sessions, we conquer the world of cross-cultural communication together. We build
custom training schedules dedicated to your unique background and experiences. We provide these sessions virtually so we can meet you anywhere, any time! In private sessions, a
specialized coach will create a unique learning environment to meet your needs. Private
sessions provide:

• A comfortable and supportive one-on-one environment
• A flexible structure ideal for time-strapped professionals
• Custom curricula that we can adapt to fit your unique circumstances
• Individualized focus on your understanding and needs
• Ample time for personalized feedback and goal setting
• Specialized insight from a seasoned professional coach with international experience
• The opportunity to build confidence in a private setting before applying your skills in
  public

Workshops, Seminars, and Group Training

We can provide specialized workshops, seminars, and group training uniquely tailored to your
organization’s goals. Group sessions are designed to be interactive and informative with plenty of opportunities to practice specific skills that you can use every day. These settings offer the ability to:

• Gain confidence within a supportive group of peers who share similar goals
• Learn through observation and direct peer feedback
• Share valuable feedback with your peers and instructors
• Network and build relationships with peers and colleagues
• Become more comfortable presenting in front of a group
• Improve your communication and listening skills
• Inspire others and be inspired in return

World-Wide Service

We provide cross-cultural communication coaching virtually so that we can meet you anytime, anywhere, no passport required!

We work alongside clients from around the globe who want to improve their communication, just like you. Our seasoned specialists know what it’s like to communicate in a different country so we understand how daunting it can be. Let us come to you and help you improve your communication today!

Internationally Recognized Coaches


We are one of the only organizations to offer this unique, specific training.
Our internationally renowned specialists offer cross-cultural communication coaching to help
you communicate effectively and without misunderstanding. We provide a highly technical
process that requires nuanced knowledge and expert guidance from coaches who have had
years of experience in the field with clients from every corner of the globe.
Reach out to New York and DC Speech Coaching today to set up your first appointment. If you have any
questions about our cross-cultural communication services, please give us a call at (646)535-6785 or (202)979-2466 with any questions.