{"id":794,"date":"2021-11-05T16:49:19","date_gmt":"2021-11-05T16:49:19","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/?p=794"},"modified":"2025-10-23T00:00:00","modified_gmt":"2025-10-23T00:00:00","slug":"cross-cultural-communication","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/cross-cultural-communication\/","title":{"rendered":"A Leader&#8217;s Guide to Cross-Cultural Communication in the Workplace"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>Did you know that companies that have a more diverse workforce tend to financially outperform those who don\u2019t by up to 39%?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In fact, that number has been steadily increasing since 2015, when McKinsey &amp; Company\u2019s diversity report showed a number closer to 15%.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>At their best, multicultural teams can produce better results than culturally homogenous ones, as their <a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/brainstorming-ideas\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">brainstorming<\/a> and problem-solving processes tend to involve people with different perspectives. In short, <strong>more diverse teams are able to analyze problems from different angles and present unique solutions incorporating the different experiences of their members<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>However, that\u2019s only if all those perspectives are equally valued and taken into account when decisions are being made.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If they\u2019re not, the resulting erosion of <a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/building-trust-in-virtual-teams\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">workplace trust<\/a> and productivity can decrease <a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/boost-employee-morale\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">employee morale<\/a> and increase turnover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>So, what can you do to prevent that?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Well, you could start by exploring two important frameworks for understanding the process of cross-cultural communication in the workplace.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Cross-cultural-communication.jpg\" alt=\"Cross-cultural-communication-cover\" class=\"wp-image-20236\" srcset=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Cross-cultural-communication.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Cross-cultural-communication-600x300.jpg 600w, https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Cross-cultural-communication-1110x555.jpg 1110w, https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Cross-cultural-communication-768x384.jpg 768w, https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Cross-cultural-communication-18x9.jpg 18w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list key-takeaways\">\n<li>Edward T. Hall\u2019s concept of high-context and low-context cultures is one of the key frameworks for understanding the nuances of cross-cultural communication.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Geert Hofstede\u2019s cultural dimensions like power distance, uncertainty avoidance, and individualism vs collectivism can shed more light on cultural differences that may affect communication at work.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Cross-cultural communication in the workplace can be obstructed due to physical distance, ethnocentrism, language barriers, as well as differences in the use of nonverbal cues, perceptions of time, feedback styles, and hierarchical values.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The best ways to improve cross-cultural communication in the workplace include establishing communication standards, educating your employees, and encouraging curiosity and genuine connection.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"key-frameworks-for-understanding-cross-cultural-communication-in-the-workplace\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Key frameworks for understanding cross-cultural communication in the workplace<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>If you want to know how to improve cross-cultural communication in the workplace, you should start by having a basic understanding of two key frameworks:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Edward T. Hall\u2019s high- and low-context cultures, and<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Geert Hofstede\u2019s cultural dimensions.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p>These two social scientists have come up with various dichotomies we can use to analyze different cultures\u2019 approaches to communication and gain a greater understanding of the clashes that can occur as a result of ethnocentrism at work.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>So, without further ado, let\u2019s start with dissecting Hall\u2019s concept of high-context vs low-context cultures.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"edward-t-halls-high-context-vs-low-context-cultures\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Edward T. Hall\u2019s high-context vs low-context cultures<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Edward T. Hall was an American anthropologist known for developing the concept of proxemics \u2014 which we\u2019ve previously discussed in our article on the <a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/learn\/communication\/communication-types\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">4 types of communication<\/a> (and will revisit in this article as well).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>However, he also spent a significant portion of his career researching cross-cultural communication, which resulted in the high-context and low-context communication framework. In <a href=\"https:\/\/www.goodreads.com\/book\/show\/251347.Beyond_Culture\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><em>Beyond Culture<\/em><\/a>, one of his earlier works on the topic, Hall presented the following definition of these terms:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p>\u201c<em>A <\/em><strong><em>high-context<\/em><\/strong><em> (HC) communication or message is one in which <\/em><strong><em>most of the information is already in the person<\/em><\/strong><em>, while very little is in the coded, explicit, transmitted part of the message.&nbsp;<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><em>A <\/em><strong><em>low-context<\/em><\/strong><em> (LC) communication is just the opposite; i.e., <\/em><strong><em>the mass of the information is vested in the explicit code<\/em><\/strong><em>.&nbsp;<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><em>Twins who have grown up together can and do communicate more economically (HC) than two lawyers in a courtroom during a trial (LC), a mathematician programming a computer, two politicians drafting legislation, two administrators writing a regulation.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p>In other words, <strong>in high-context cultures, speakers may assume that the listeners already have access to certain information<\/strong> and, therefore, may not explicitly state everything when describing events.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>On the other hand, <strong>people in low-context cultures tend to assume that listeners have no prior knowledge<\/strong> (or memory) of the event being discussed and expect to be spoken to in a similar manner.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"custom-btn\"><a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/register\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Share just the right amount of information with Pumble<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 id=\"professional-communication-in-high-context-vs-low-context-cultures\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Professional communication in high-context vs low-context cultures<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Based on the examples listed in Hall\u2019s definition, we might say that <strong>professional communication is naturally on the low-context end<\/strong> <strong>of the spectrum<\/strong>. However, it may not be classified that way across cultures.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>As a result, coworkers from different cultures may experience <a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/miscommunication-in-the-workplace\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">misunderstandings in the workplace<\/a>, as:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>High-context people might become irritated when low-context people provide information they don\u2019t need, and<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Low-context people can feel lost when high-context people don\u2019t provide enough information.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>So, it\u2019s important to understand where we and our coworkers exist on this spectrum and act accordingly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><thead><tr><th><strong>LOW-CONTEXT CULTURES<\/strong><\/th><th><strong>HIGH-CONTEXT CULTURES<\/strong><\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td rowspan=\"2\">\u2014 Rely on clear and extensive (<a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/verbal-communication\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">verbal<\/a> or <a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/mastering-written-communication-skills\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">written<\/a>) communication<br>\u2014 Daily interactions require in-depth background information<br>\u2014 Compartmentalized information networks (friends, family, coworkers), limited in scope and development<br>\u2014 Separate offices at work, coworkers must schedule meetings to touch base<br>\u2014 Examples include the US, the UK, Germany, Switzerland, and Scandinavian countries<\/td><td rowspan=\"2\">\u2014 Rely on a preexisting knowledge of the context and nonverbal cues<br>\u2014 Don\u2019t require in-depth background information in daily interactions<br>\u2014 Maintain extensive information networks via close personal relationships<br>\u2014 Shared offices with people freely coming and going, seeking and giving information<br>\u2014 Examples include Japan, China, Arabic and Mediterranean countries<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"custom-btn\"><a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/register\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Keep in touch with remote team members on Pumble<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"hofstedes-cultural-dimensions\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Hofstede\u2019s cultural dimensions<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>While Hall was shaping his theory of high-context vs low-context cultures, psychologist Geert Hofstede was developing his concept of cultural dimensions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In the latter half of the 20th century, Hofstede got a chance to work at IBM, tasked with collecting and analyzing survey data from over 100,000 IBM employees working in over 50 countries.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This work resulted in the creation of Hofstede\u2019s 4 cultural dimensions, which he later expanded upon. By the time Hofstede published his 2011 paper, <a href=\"https:\/\/scholarworks.gvsu.edu\/cgi\/viewcontent.cgi?article=1014&amp;context=orpc\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><em>Dimensionalizing Cultures: The Hofstede Model in Context<\/em><\/a>, the framework compared cultures based on:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Small vs large <strong>power distance<\/strong>, i.e. the extent to which the less powerful members of organizations accept and expect that power is distributed unequally (lesser in Germany and Western, English-speaking countries; greater in Eastern Europe, Asian, and African countries, according to Hofstede),<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Weak vs strong <strong>uncertainty avoidance<\/strong>, i.e. the level of anxiety employees experience in the face of ambiguity (lower in China, as well as Nordic and English-speaking countries; higher in East and Central Europe, Latin America, Japan, and Germany),<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Individualism vs collectivism<\/strong>, i.e. the degree of integration into and identification with social groups (individualist West vs collectivist East, generally, with Japan taking a middle position \u2014 according to Hofstede),<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Masculinity vs femininity<\/strong>, i.e., the degree of emotional and social role differentiation between the genders (masculine societies like Japan, German-speaking countries, Italy, and Mexico have a greater degree of role differentiation, as opposed to France, Chile, Korea, and the Nordic countries),<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Short-term vs long-term orientation<\/strong>, i.e., the belief that the most important life events take place in the past or present vs the future (the US, Australia, Latin American, and African countries are short-term oriented, while East Asian Countries, Eastern and Central Europe are long-term oriented), and<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Indulgence vs restraint<\/strong>, i.e., whether a society indulges or controls basic desires related to enjoying life and having fun (South and North America, Western Europe, and parts of sub-saharan Africa are more indulgent than Eastern European, Asian, and Muslim cultures).<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p>In reality, of course, these divisions may not be so clear-cut. Besides, this is just a brief overview of Hofstede&#8217;s cultural dimensions that doesn\u2019t go into all the details of the theory.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n<div class=\"banner banner-dark pumble-gradient-features\">\n    <div class=\"banner-text lg:pr-[6rem]\">\n        <span class=\"h4 text-lg translation-block mb-0\">Discover Pumble\u2019s hidden dimensions<\/span>\n        <p class=\"translation-block mt-1 mb-3\">From messaging and video conferencing features to notification scheduling and more!<\/p>\n\n        <div class=\"banner-buttons d-flex gap-4 align-items-center translation-block justify-content-center justify-content-sm-start\">\n            <a class=\"bg-white rounded px-3 py-1 text-gray-dark\" href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/feature-list\" target=\"_blank\">See features<\/a>\n\n                            <a class=\"button-2\" href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/register\" target=\"_blank\">Sign up<\/a>\n                    <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n\n    <div class=\"banner-image banner-image-middle \">\n        <picture>\n            <source srcset=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/themes\/cake-blog\/theme\/images\/banners\/features@2x.png 2x\" alt=\"Illustration\"  media=\"(min-width: 1022px)\" \/>\n            <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/themes\/cake-blog\/theme\/images\/banners\/features.png\"  alt=\"Illustration\" \/>\n        <\/picture>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n    \n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"7-common-barriers-to-effective-cross-cultural-communication-and-how-to-overcome-them\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">7 Common barriers to effective cross-cultural communication (and how to overcome them)<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>If you\u2019re trying to determine how to improve cross-cultural communication in the workplace, you should also know some of the most common obstacles you may encounter in the process.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Going forward, we\u2019re going to take a look at the 7 most common <a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/learn\/communication\/communication-barriers\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">communication barriers<\/a> that might hinder cross-cultural understanding:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Physical distance,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Ethnocentrism,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Language &amp; idioms,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Nonverbal cues,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Perceptions of time,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Feedback styles, and<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Hierarchical values.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p>So, let\u2019s see some examples of cross-cultural miscommunication that might occur as a result of these barriers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"barrier-1-physical-distance\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Barrier #1: Physical distance<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Physical distance isn\u2019t a requirement for cross-cultural communication. After all, people from different cultures can share an office building. However, in <a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/remote-first-culture\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">remote-first companies<\/a>, distance and time zone differences often introduce some challenges to communication.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>But, though not sharing the same space can make <a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/learn\/communication\/effective-communication\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">effective communication<\/a> somewhat difficult, it\u2019s certainly not impossible.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Team communication apps like <a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Pumble<\/a> by <a href=\"https:\/\/cake.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CAKE.com<\/a> can let your team collaborate and <a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/asynchronous-communication\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">communicate asynchronously<\/a> by:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Keeping communication organized with channels and threads, thereby ensuring that everyone has all the information they need to do their jobs,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/features\/schedule-a-message\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Scheduling messages<\/a> so as not to disturb coworkers in different time zones, and<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Adjusting your <a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/features\/notification-preferences\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">notification preferences<\/a> to make sure you\u2019re not disturbed when you\u2019re off the clock.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"666\" src=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Scheduling-a-message-in-a-channel-on-Pumble-a-team-communication-app-min.png\" alt=\"Scheduling a message in a channel on Pumble, a team communication app\" class=\"wp-image-20242\" srcset=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Scheduling-a-message-in-a-channel-on-Pumble-a-team-communication-app-min.png 1200w, https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Scheduling-a-message-in-a-channel-on-Pumble-a-team-communication-app-min-541x300.png 541w, https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Scheduling-a-message-in-a-channel-on-Pumble-a-team-communication-app-min-1110x616.png 1110w, https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Scheduling-a-message-in-a-channel-on-Pumble-a-team-communication-app-min-768x426.png 768w, https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Scheduling-a-message-in-a-channel-on-Pumble-a-team-communication-app-min-18x10.png 18w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Scheduling a message in a channel on Pumble, a team communication app<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p>Generally speaking, any issues that may come up because of time zones and physical distance can be solved by <strong>adopting a more flexible and understanding approach to communication<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"custom-btn\"><a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/register\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Communicate anywhere, anytime \u2014 with Pumble<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"barrier-2-ethnocentrism\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Barrier #2: Ethnocentrism<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The human tendency to subconsciously evaluate all other cultures through the lens of our own is a barrier to cross-cultural communication that most others stem from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Negative preconceptions of other cultures like <strong>prejudice, bias, and stereotypes<\/strong> are often the result of ethnocentrism. However, positive evaluations of other cultures can also be the result of <strong>assumptions of similarity<\/strong>, which can be made through an ethnocentric lens.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Examples of cross-cultural miscommunication caused by ethnocentrism might include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Believing that your overseas coworkers\u2019 way of executing tasks is wrong because you were taught to do them differently,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Misinterpreting the intentions behind other people\u2019s verbal and nonverbal behaviors without understanding their cultural significance, as well as<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Engaging in <a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/favoritism-at-work\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">in-group favoritism<\/a> by only highlighting the contributions of coworkers who share your cultural background.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Unfortunately, even social scientists haven\u2019t managed to completely root out this particular way of thinking. But, even though there\u2019s no way to eliminate this obstacle to cross-cultural communication in the workplace, we can still mitigate it by educating ourselves and clearly communicating that ethnocentrism has no place in our <a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/team-values-explained\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">team values<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"custom-btn\"><a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/register\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Establish your team values on Pumble<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"barrier-3-language-idioms\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Barrier #3: Language &amp; idioms<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The next potential barrier to practicing effective cross-cultural communication in the workplace comes in the form of a practical concern. Even if everyone speaks the same language, <strong>misunderstandings between native and non-native speakers<\/strong> can still occur.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>People who don\u2019t speak in their native tongue at work may not understand all the phrases their coworkers use. And worse, they may feel too embarrassed to double check whether they\u2019ve understood their coworkers.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"547\" src=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Coworkers-discussing-missing-an-important-piece-of-information-during-a-meeting-on-Pumble-a-business-messaging-app-min.png\" alt=\"Coworkers discussing missing an important piece of information during a meeting on Pumble, a business messaging app\" class=\"wp-image-20244\" srcset=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Coworkers-discussing-missing-an-important-piece-of-information-during-a-meeting-on-Pumble-a-business-messaging-app-min.png 1200w, https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Coworkers-discussing-missing-an-important-piece-of-information-during-a-meeting-on-Pumble-a-business-messaging-app-min-658x300.png 658w, https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Coworkers-discussing-missing-an-important-piece-of-information-during-a-meeting-on-Pumble-a-business-messaging-app-min-1110x506.png 1110w, https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Coworkers-discussing-missing-an-important-piece-of-information-during-a-meeting-on-Pumble-a-business-messaging-app-min-768x350.png 768w, https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Coworkers-discussing-missing-an-important-piece-of-information-during-a-meeting-on-Pumble-a-business-messaging-app-min-18x8.png 18w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Coworkers discussing missing an important piece of information during a meeting on Pumble, a business messaging app<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p>On the other hand, native speakers who work with non-native speakers may foster some <strong>linguistic prejudice<\/strong>, which can manifest as a bias against people who don\u2019t meet their <strong>standards for language fluency<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Even between people who share the same mother tongue, there may still be some <strong>prejudice toward those who speak in certain accents or dialects<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In these kinds of situations, <strong>it can be tempting to overcorrect<\/strong> and never mention these differences for fear of offending your coworkers. But, according to the author, communication expert, and public speaking instructor at the University of Toronto\u2019s School of Continuing Studies, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/iwanisruiz\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Ivan Wanis Ruiz<\/a>, that\u2019s not the right call either:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns pro-blockquote is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"600\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Ivan-Wanis-Ruiz.jpg\" alt=\"Ivan Wanis Ruiz\" class=\"wp-image-20245\" srcset=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Ivan-Wanis-Ruiz.jpg 600w, https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Ivan-Wanis-Ruiz-300x300.jpg 300w, https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Ivan-Wanis-Ruiz-12x12.jpg 12w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<p><em>\u201cOne of the biggest barriers is our reluctance to name the elephant in the room. If someone has a strong accent, coworkers might pretend to understand rather than ask for clarification, worried they might offend. The solution is to normalize openness early on.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>So, when in doubt, just keep it simple by speaking slowly and taking turns to speak so everyone has a chance to contribute to the conversation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n<div class=\"banner banner-light pumble-gradient-templates\">\n    <div class=\"banner-text lg:pr-[6rem]\">\n        <span class=\"h4 text-lg translation-block mb-0\">Share feedback with the click of a button<\/span>\n        <p class=\"translation-block mt-1 mb-3\">All well? Use an emoji reaction. More to say? Send a DM.<\/p>\n\n        <div class=\"banner-buttons d-flex gap-4 align-items-center translation-block justify-content-center justify-content-sm-start\">\n            <a class=\"bg-white rounded px-3 py-1 text-gray-dark\" href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/help\/using-pumble\/format-and-style-messages\/use-emoji-reactions\/\" target=\"_blank\">Learn more<\/a>\n\n                            <a class=\"button-2\" href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/register\" target=\"_blank\">Sign up<\/a>\n                    <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n\n    <div class=\"banner-image banner-image-middle \">\n        <picture>\n            <source srcset=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/themes\/cake-blog\/theme\/images\/banners\/templates@2x.png 2x\" alt=\"Illustration\"  media=\"(min-width: 1022px)\" \/>\n            <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/themes\/cake-blog\/theme\/images\/banners\/templates.png\"  alt=\"Illustration\" \/>\n        <\/picture>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n    \n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"barrier-7-hierarchical-values\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Barrier #7: Hierarchical values<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Last but not least, the fact that different cultures have different approaches to hierarchy should come as no surprise.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Even Hofstede\u2019s cultural dimensions took note of cultures that have a smaller vs larger power distance \u2014 with the greater distance being more prominent in Asian, Eastern European, and African countries.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Naturally, having <strong>different understandings of the importance of hierarchy can lead to all sorts of cross-cultural conflicts in the workplace<\/strong>, as HR expert and the CEO of a global HR and Employer of Record platform, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/lucasbotzen\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Lucas Botzen<\/a>, told us:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns pro-blockquote is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"400\" height=\"400\" src=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Lucas-Botzen.jpg\" alt=\"Lucas Botzen\" class=\"wp-image-20247\" srcset=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Lucas-Botzen.jpg 400w, https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Lucas-Botzen-300x300.jpg 300w, https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Lucas-Botzen-12x12.jpg 12w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 400px) 100vw, 400px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<p><em>\u201cIncorrect assumptions about hierarchy or decision-making styles, especially in high-context and low-context cultures, can also lead to confusion. Indirect communication in some cultures, for example, is a sign of respect, but for others, it may be evasive or ambiguous.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:30px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"667\" src=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/An-employee-disregards-hierarchal-etiquette-when-formulating-his-message-on-Pumble-a-team-communication-app-min.png\" alt=\"An employee disregards hierarchal etiquette when formulating his message on Pumble, a team communication app\" class=\"wp-image-20248\" srcset=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/An-employee-disregards-hierarchal-etiquette-when-formulating-his-message-on-Pumble-a-team-communication-app-min.png 1200w, https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/An-employee-disregards-hierarchal-etiquette-when-formulating-his-message-on-Pumble-a-team-communication-app-min-540x300.png 540w, https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/An-employee-disregards-hierarchal-etiquette-when-formulating-his-message-on-Pumble-a-team-communication-app-min-1110x617.png 1110w, https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/An-employee-disregards-hierarchal-etiquette-when-formulating-his-message-on-Pumble-a-team-communication-app-min-768x427.png 768w, https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/An-employee-disregards-hierarchal-etiquette-when-formulating-his-message-on-Pumble-a-team-communication-app-min-18x10.png 18w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">An employee disregards hierarchal etiquette when formulating his message on Pumble, a team communication app by CAKE.com<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group pro-tip\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p>\ud83d\udca1 <strong>PUMBLE PRO TIP<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The image above shows an employee getting in touch with his work buddy\u2019s manager \u2014 an example of diagonal communication in the workplace. To learn more about this type of communication, check out this guide:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/diagonal-communication\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Diagonal Communication: Definitions, Pros, Cons, and Tips<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"how-to-improve-cross-cultural-communication-in-the-workplace-7-actionable-strategies\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">How to improve cross-cultural communication in the workplace: 7 actionable strategies<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Now that we know some of the cross-cultural communication barriers you may face as you attempt to make your workplace a multicultural wonderland, let\u2019s talk about some specific steps you can take to achieve that goal.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Going forward, we\u2019ll discuss how you can:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Set the right tone,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Educate your team (and yourself),<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Establish communication standards,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Encourage active listening,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Foster a curious, rather than judgmental, environment,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Ensure understanding by avoiding slang, jargon, and certain types of humor, and<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Strengthen camaraderie with team-building activities.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p>So, let\u2019s jump right in.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"strategy-1-set-the-right-tone\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Strategy #1: Set the right tone<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>If you want to know how to improve cross-cultural communication in the workplace, you should start by setting the right tone yourself.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>According to Ivan Wanis Ruiz, one way to do that would be to <strong>make sure everyone knows that they can ask you to explain yourself<\/strong> any time they don\u2019t understand something you\u2019ve said or done:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns pro-blockquote is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"600\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Ivan-Wanis-Ruiz.jpg\" alt=\"Ivan Wanis Ruiz\" class=\"wp-image-20245\" srcset=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Ivan-Wanis-Ruiz.jpg 600w, https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Ivan-Wanis-Ruiz-300x300.jpg 300w, https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Ivan-Wanis-Ruiz-12x12.jpg 12w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<p><em><em>\u201cYou can set the tone by letting others know it is okay to ask questions about your tone or nonverbal communication. Doing this gives people permission to speak honestly and reduces friction within the team.\u201d<\/em><\/em><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>Having an <a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/open-door-policy\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">open-door policy<\/a> in general is a useful way to <a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/psychological-safety\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">establish psychological safety<\/a> in the workplace \u2014 especially if you\u2019re a part of the cultural majority at your organization.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>However, since there\u2019s a chance that no one will want to be the first to ask if they don\u2019t understand something, you might want to ask a trusted coworker to break the ice. Once they do, your calm response and explanation will signal to the others that <a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/ask-questions-at-work\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">asking clarifying questions<\/a> is not only allowed \u2014 but encouraged.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"667\" src=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/John-decides-that-sharing-a-transcript-along-with-the-meeting-recording-will-be-helpful-on-Pumble-a-business-messaging-app-min.png\" alt=\"John decides that sharing a transcript along with the meeting recording will be helpful on Pumble, a business messaging app-min\" class=\"wp-image-20249\" srcset=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/John-decides-that-sharing-a-transcript-along-with-the-meeting-recording-will-be-helpful-on-Pumble-a-business-messaging-app-min.png 1200w, https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/John-decides-that-sharing-a-transcript-along-with-the-meeting-recording-will-be-helpful-on-Pumble-a-business-messaging-app-min-540x300.png 540w, https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/John-decides-that-sharing-a-transcript-along-with-the-meeting-recording-will-be-helpful-on-Pumble-a-business-messaging-app-min-1110x617.png 1110w, https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/John-decides-that-sharing-a-transcript-along-with-the-meeting-recording-will-be-helpful-on-Pumble-a-business-messaging-app-min-768x427.png 768w, https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/John-decides-that-sharing-a-transcript-along-with-the-meeting-recording-will-be-helpful-on-Pumble-a-business-messaging-app-min-18x10.png 18w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">John decides that sharing a transcript along with the meeting recording will be helpful on Pumble, a business messaging app<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p class=\"custom-btn\"><a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/register\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Record your meetings in Pumble<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"strategy-2-educate-your-team\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Strategy #2: Educate your team<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Another way to make everyone realize that mastering cross-cultural communication is a necessity in your organization would be to simply provide ongoing cultural sensitivity training.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The goal of these workshops should be to increase your team members\u2019 self-awareness and point out some of the <a href=\"https:\/\/cake.com\/blog\/bias-in-the-workplace\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">subconscious biases<\/a> they might have.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you work for a multinational corporation that\u2019s struggling to bridge the gaps between employees in different countries, <strong>make your educational workshops reflect that reality<\/strong> by:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Asking your employees what kinds of <a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/microaggressions-in-the-workplace\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">microaggressions<\/a> they might be facing in the workplace and what they wish employees from other countries knew about their culture,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Taking note of the gaps in knowledge your cultural majority employees might have, and<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Creating an educational program with these specific problems in mind.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"667\" src=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/An-HR-employee-shares-an-employee-survey-on-Pumble-a-team-communication-app-min.png\" alt=\"An HR employee shares an employee survey on Pumble, a team communication app\" class=\"wp-image-20250\" srcset=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/An-HR-employee-shares-an-employee-survey-on-Pumble-a-team-communication-app-min.png 1200w, https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/An-HR-employee-shares-an-employee-survey-on-Pumble-a-team-communication-app-min-540x300.png 540w, https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/An-HR-employee-shares-an-employee-survey-on-Pumble-a-team-communication-app-min-1110x617.png 1110w, https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/An-HR-employee-shares-an-employee-survey-on-Pumble-a-team-communication-app-min-768x427.png 768w, https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/An-HR-employee-shares-an-employee-survey-on-Pumble-a-team-communication-app-min-18x10.png 18w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">An HR employee shares an employee survey on Pumble, a team communication app<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p class=\"custom-btn\"><a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/register\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Host your educational workshops on Pumble<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Hopefully, doing so should get some of your employees to let go of their ethnocentrism and approach their foreign coworkers with empathy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>After all, as <a href=\"https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/lisams\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Lisa M. Sanchez<\/a>, the Vice President of Employee Experience and Engagement at ArtCenter College of Design, put it \u2014 these are the basic rules of communication we should follow regardless of the cultural composition of our workplace:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns pro-blockquote is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"481\" height=\"481\" src=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Lisa-M.-Sanchez.jpg\" alt=\"Lisa M. Sanchez\" class=\"wp-image-20251\" srcset=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Lisa-M.-Sanchez.jpg 481w, https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Lisa-M.-Sanchez-300x300.jpg 300w, https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Lisa-M.-Sanchez-12x12.jpg 12w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 481px) 100vw, 481px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<p><em>\u201cCommunication fundamentals still matter in cross-cultural environments. It\u2019s about treating people with dignity and respect and valuing our differences.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"strategy-3-establish-communication-standards\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Strategy #3: Establish communication standards<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Whether you work for a multicultural organization or not, having clearly outlined communication protocols is going to be an important part of your <a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/company-culture\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">organizational culture<\/a> overall, as Lisa M. Sanchez noted:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns pro-blockquote is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"481\" height=\"481\" src=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Lisa-M.-Sanchez.jpg\" alt=\"Lisa-M.-Sanchez\" class=\"wp-image-20251\" srcset=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Lisa-M.-Sanchez.jpg 481w, https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Lisa-M.-Sanchez-300x300.jpg 300w, https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Lisa-M.-Sanchez-12x12.jpg 12w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 481px) 100vw, 481px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<p><em><em>\u201cCross-cultural communication is part of the overall culture of the organization. Organizational culture defines customs, language, beliefs, and norms that are either accepted, tolerated, or granted permission where there\u2019s no intervention to stop inappropriate communication.\u201d<\/em><\/em><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>In other words, cross-cultural communication in the workplace is much easier if your employees have certain policies and protocols to fall back on, such as:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Protection against microaggressions and other <a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/how-to-handle-workplace-bullying-tips-for-managers\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">forms of bias and prejudice<\/a> at work,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Procedures for <a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/phrases-to-use-to-diffuse-conflict-at-work\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">conflict resolution<\/a> between employees (as well as disciplinary measures for repeat offenders),<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Organizational documentation that takes into account linguistic and cultural differences between employees and uses culturally-sensitive language, and even<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Policies on work hours (for example, if a part of your workforce is in another time zone, it can be helpful if their work hours somewhat overlap with the majority of your employees, as shown in the image below).<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"667\" src=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/A-managers-announcement-regarding-new-team-members-work-hours-on-Pumble-a-business-messaging-app-min.png\" alt=\"A manager\u2019s announcement regarding new team members\u2019 work hours on Pumble, a business messaging app\" class=\"wp-image-20252\" srcset=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/A-managers-announcement-regarding-new-team-members-work-hours-on-Pumble-a-business-messaging-app-min.png 1200w, https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/A-managers-announcement-regarding-new-team-members-work-hours-on-Pumble-a-business-messaging-app-min-540x300.png 540w, https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/A-managers-announcement-regarding-new-team-members-work-hours-on-Pumble-a-business-messaging-app-min-1110x617.png 1110w, https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/A-managers-announcement-regarding-new-team-members-work-hours-on-Pumble-a-business-messaging-app-min-768x427.png 768w, https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/A-managers-announcement-regarding-new-team-members-work-hours-on-Pumble-a-business-messaging-app-min-18x10.png 18w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">A manager\u2019s announcement regarding new team members\u2019 work hours on Pumble, a business messaging app<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p>Obviously, <strong>your processes should allow for some degree of flexibility<\/strong>. Ideally, you wouldn\u2019t <a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/write-up-at-work\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">write an employee up<\/a> over a minor case of <em>accidental<\/em> cultural insensitivity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>However, you <em>can<\/em> create policies that recognize and respect the cultural differences of your employees, as an HR Manager at a global workforce management company, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/sheriah-boehm\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Sheriah Boehm<\/a>, noted:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns pro-blockquote is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"400\" height=\"400\" src=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Sheriah-Boehm.jpg\" alt=\"Sheriah Boehm\" class=\"wp-image-20253\" srcset=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Sheriah-Boehm.jpg 400w, https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Sheriah-Boehm-300x300.jpg 300w, https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Sheriah-Boehm-12x12.jpg 12w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 400px) 100vw, 400px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<p><em>\u201cInclusivity extends beyond just <\/em><a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/learn\/communication\/communication-styles\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><em>communication styles<\/em><\/a><em>. It can influence policies, training approaches, <\/em><a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/leadership-styles\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><em>leadership modeling<\/em><\/a><em>, and even seemingly small details such as email etiquette. The goal is to adapt, not homogenize, ensuring every team member <\/em><strong><em>feels included and understood<\/em><\/strong><em>.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n\n<div class=\"banner banner-dark pumble-gradient-bundle\">\n    <div class=\"banner-text lg:pr-[6rem]\">\n        <span class=\"h4 text-lg translation-block mb-0\">Manage your team with the CAKE.com Productivity Suite<\/span>\n        <p class=\"translation-block mt-1 mb-3\">Improve collaboration and cut down on emails by moving your team communication to Pumble.<\/p>\n\n        <div class=\"banner-buttons d-flex gap-4 align-items-center translation-block justify-content-center justify-content-sm-start\">\n            <a class=\"bg-white rounded px-3 py-1 text-gray-dark\" href=\"https:\/\/cake.com\/suite\" target=\"_blank\">Try the CAKE.com Productivity Suite<\/a>\n\n                    <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n\n    <div class=\"banner-image banner-image-bottom \">\n        <picture>\n            <source srcset=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/themes\/cake-blog\/theme\/images\/banners\/bundle@2x.png 2x\" alt=\"Illustration\"  media=\"(min-width: 1022px)\" \/>\n            <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/themes\/cake-blog\/theme\/images\/banners\/bundle.png\"  alt=\"Illustration\" \/>\n        <\/picture>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n    \n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"strategy-4-encourage-active-listening\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Strategy #4: Encourage active listening<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>While you develop your cultural sensitivity training modules, you might want to focus a workshop or two on the skill of <a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/learn\/communication\/active-listening\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">active listening<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>As Lucas Botzen told us, <strong>cross-cultural communication requires intentionality and practice<\/strong>. Developing good listening skills is the best way to introduce both of those requirements into any conversation:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns pro-blockquote is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"400\" height=\"400\" src=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Lucas-Botzen.jpg\" alt=\"Lucas Botzen\" class=\"wp-image-20247\" srcset=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Lucas-Botzen.jpg 400w, https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Lucas-Botzen-300x300.jpg 300w, https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Lucas-Botzen-12x12.jpg 12w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 400px) 100vw, 400px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<p><em><em>\u201cMy standard advice is to <\/em><strong><em>listen carefully and pose clarifying questions<\/em><\/strong><em> rather than assuming meaning \u2014 a mark of respect <\/em>and<em> a means of avoiding misunderstanding. Investing time in understanding the cultural background and communication norms of colleagues can reap enormous benefits in terms of trust and productivity.\u201d<\/em><\/em><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>However, when it comes to asking clarifying questions, we should <strong>keep in mind that people from different cultural backgrounds may respond differently to certain types of questions<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For example, <strong>active listening often requires some degree of reflection<\/strong> \u2014 you might paraphrase a statement to make sure you\u2019ve understood the gist of what the other person was saying, as shown in the example below.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"573\" src=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Milo-asks-a-clarifying-question-on-Pumble-a-team-communication-app-min.png\" alt=\"Milo asks a clarifying question on Pumble, a team communication app\" class=\"wp-image-20254\" srcset=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Milo-asks-a-clarifying-question-on-Pumble-a-team-communication-app-min.png 1200w, https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Milo-asks-a-clarifying-question-on-Pumble-a-team-communication-app-min-628x300.png 628w, https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Milo-asks-a-clarifying-question-on-Pumble-a-team-communication-app-min-1110x530.png 1110w, https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Milo-asks-a-clarifying-question-on-Pumble-a-team-communication-app-min-768x367.png 768w, https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Milo-asks-a-clarifying-question-on-Pumble-a-team-communication-app-min-18x9.png 18w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Milo asks a clarifying question on Pumble, a team communication app<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p>But, if the other person is from a cultural background that values hierarchy and you\u2019re technically above them on the company ladder, they may feel compelled to answer any \u201cyes or no\u201d questions you pose with a positive to avoid offending you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Similarly, some people (typically those from a high-context cultural background) might find certain behaviors we tend to use as indicators of active listening <strong>overwhelming or even aggressive<\/strong>. Things like prolonged eye contact or direct questions may be unnerving to someone who comes from a culture that values subtlety and indirection over bluntness.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"custom-btn\"><a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/register\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Ask the right questions on Pumble<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"strategy-5-foster-a-curious-rather-than-judgmental-environment\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Strategy #5: Foster a curious, rather than judgmental, environment<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>With any luck, the efforts you\u2019ve made to improve cross-cultural communication in the workplace until this point will have resulted in a more open-minded workforce overall.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>But, if they haven\u2019t, here are some more things you can do to encourage your employees to be more curious about other cultures:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Recognize the religious and <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/say-happy-holidays-professionally\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>national holidays<\/strong><\/a> of employees from different cultural backgrounds,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Be open to all ideas<\/strong> (and be able to explain why you chose one over the other), and<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Normalize <strong>admitting to, <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/say-sorry-professionally\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>apologizing for<\/strong><\/a><strong>, and learning from mistakes<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"667\" src=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/A-manager-apologizes-over-his-use-of-culturally-insensitive-language-on-Pumble-a-business-messaging-app-min.png\" alt=\"A manager apologizes over his use of culturally insensitive language on Pumble, a business messaging app\" class=\"wp-image-20255\" srcset=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/A-manager-apologizes-over-his-use-of-culturally-insensitive-language-on-Pumble-a-business-messaging-app-min.png 1200w, https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/A-manager-apologizes-over-his-use-of-culturally-insensitive-language-on-Pumble-a-business-messaging-app-min-540x300.png 540w, https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/A-manager-apologizes-over-his-use-of-culturally-insensitive-language-on-Pumble-a-business-messaging-app-min-1110x617.png 1110w, https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/A-manager-apologizes-over-his-use-of-culturally-insensitive-language-on-Pumble-a-business-messaging-app-min-768x427.png 768w, https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/A-manager-apologizes-over-his-use-of-culturally-insensitive-language-on-Pumble-a-business-messaging-app-min-18x10.png 18w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">A manager apologizes over his use of culturally insensitive language on Pumble, a business messaging app<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p>After all, as Ivan Wanis Ruiz told us, correctness shouldn\u2019t be the goal of cross-cultural communication:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns pro-blockquote is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"600\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Ivan-Wanis-Ruiz.jpg\" alt=\"Ivan Wanis Ruiz\" class=\"wp-image-20245\" srcset=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Ivan-Wanis-Ruiz.jpg 600w, https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Ivan-Wanis-Ruiz-300x300.jpg 300w, https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Ivan-Wanis-Ruiz-12x12.jpg 12w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<p><em><em>\u201cUltimately, cross-cultural communication improves when both sides <\/em><strong><em>make curiosity \u2014 not correctness \u2014 the goal<\/em><\/strong><em>.\u201d<\/em><\/em><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>To that end, companies should encourage their diverse local teams to participate in crafting their DEI strategy by introducing their own DEI initiatives \u2014 which was one of the 5 recommendations shared in McKinsey &amp; Company&#8217;s <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mckinsey.com\/featured-insights\/diversity-and-inclusion\/diversity-matters-even-more-the-case-for-holistic-impact\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">latest diversity report<\/a> we previously mentioned.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>By prioritizing belonging and inclusive practices, organizations can create an environment that fosters curiosity even in employees who belong to the cultural majority.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n<div class=\"banner banner-dark pumble-gradient-landing-2\">\n    <div class=\"banner-text lg:pr-[6rem]\">\n        <span class=\"h4 text-lg translation-block mb-0\">Work, communicate, celebrate<\/span>\n        <p class=\"translation-block mt-1 mb-3\">Strengthen employee morale by marking cultural holidays on Pumble by CAKE.com.<\/p>\n\n        <div class=\"banner-buttons d-flex gap-4 align-items-center translation-block justify-content-center justify-content-sm-start\">\n            <a class=\"bg-white rounded px-3 py-1 text-gray-dark\" href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/register\" target=\"_blank\">Sign up<\/a>\n\n                    <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n\n    <div class=\"banner-image banner-image-middle \">\n        <picture>\n            <source srcset=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/themes\/cake-blog\/theme\/images\/banners\/landing-2@2x.png 2x\" alt=\"Illustration\"  media=\"(min-width: 1022px)\" \/>\n            <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/themes\/cake-blog\/theme\/images\/banners\/landing-2.png\"  alt=\"Illustration\" \/>\n        <\/picture>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n    \n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"strategy-6-ensure-understanding-by-avoiding-slang-and-jargon\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Strategy #6: Ensure understanding by avoiding slang and jargon<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>If your employees aren\u2019t native or, at least, fluent speakers of the same language, it could be helpful to avoid slang and <a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/industry-jargon\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">jargon<\/a> to ensure understanding.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Instead, you should <strong>stick to simple vocabulary<\/strong>, as the CFO of a global workforce management company, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/sierrahinson\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Sierra Hinson<\/a>, advises:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns pro-blockquote is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"400\" height=\"400\" src=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Sierra-Hinson.jpg\" alt=\"Sierra Hinson\" class=\"wp-image-20256\" srcset=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Sierra-Hinson.jpg 400w, https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Sierra-Hinson-300x300.jpg 300w, https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Sierra-Hinson-12x12.jpg 12w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 400px) 100vw, 400px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<p><em>\u201cIt is also important to choose more universal words and phrases to make sure that everyone can understand your message. Many people in business utilize <\/em><a href=\"https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/sites\/frederickallen\/2012\/03\/01\/a-new-international-business-language-globish\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><em>Globish<\/em><\/a><em>.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>For Sierra, <strong>word choice<\/strong> tends to be one of the biggest challenges to cross-cultural communication in the workplace:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns pro-blockquote is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"400\" height=\"400\" src=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Sierra-Hinson.jpg\" alt=\"Sierra Hinson\" class=\"wp-image-20256\" srcset=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Sierra-Hinson.jpg 400w, https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Sierra-Hinson-300x300.jpg 300w, https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Sierra-Hinson-12x12.jpg 12w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 400px) 100vw, 400px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<p><em><em>\u201cSometimes, that means using a word that has more than one meaning in English (like later) or using overly complex verbiage. Being a Midwesterner, I find myself often using idioms that fall short of understanding on the other side.\u201d<\/em><\/em><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"667\" src=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Johns-use-of-slang-confuses-Claudia-on-Pumble-a-team-communication-app-min.png\" alt=\"John\u2019s use of slang confuses Claudia on Pumble, a team communication app\" class=\"wp-image-20257\" srcset=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Johns-use-of-slang-confuses-Claudia-on-Pumble-a-team-communication-app-min.png 1200w, https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Johns-use-of-slang-confuses-Claudia-on-Pumble-a-team-communication-app-min-540x300.png 540w, https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Johns-use-of-slang-confuses-Claudia-on-Pumble-a-team-communication-app-min-1110x617.png 1110w, https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Johns-use-of-slang-confuses-Claudia-on-Pumble-a-team-communication-app-min-768x427.png 768w, https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Johns-use-of-slang-confuses-Claudia-on-Pumble-a-team-communication-app-min-18x10.png 18w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">John\u2019s use of slang confuses Claudia on Pumble, a team communication app<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p><strong>Humor can be a similarly touchy subject<\/strong> when not everyone has the same level of linguistic understanding.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>After all, jokes often rely on turns of phrase and much of Western humor is also based on sarcasm, which can have adverse effects when used in a professional setting. And, things can get even dicier when people start making <strong>jokes based on cultural stereotypes or at the expense of certain minority groups<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>As Lisa M. Sanchez put it, when in doubt, look at who your audience is:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns pro-blockquote is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"481\" height=\"481\" src=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Lisa-M.-Sanchez.jpg\" alt=\"Lisa-M.-Sanchez\" class=\"wp-image-20251\" srcset=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Lisa-M.-Sanchez.jpg 481w, https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Lisa-M.-Sanchez-300x300.jpg 300w, https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Lisa-M.-Sanchez-12x12.jpg 12w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 481px) 100vw, 481px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<p><em><em>\u201cWhat\u2019s funny to one may not be funny to the next person, especially if the jokes are off-colored and related to culture or stereotypes. You must know your audience.\u201d<\/em><\/em><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>So, the next time you want to crack a joke at work, take a moment to consider whether anyone might get offended by it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"strategy-7-strengthen-camaraderie-with-team-building-activities\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Strategy #7: Strengthen camaraderie with team-building activities<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Ultimately, no amount of cultural sensitivity training will be able to replace <strong>genuine human connection<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>But, at the end of the day, culture is just one aspect of a person. As Ivan Wanis Ruiz noted, personality often matters more:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns pro-blockquote is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"600\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Ivan-Wanis-Ruiz.jpg\" alt=\"Ivan Wanis Ruiz\" class=\"wp-image-20245\" srcset=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Ivan-Wanis-Ruiz.jpg 600w, https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Ivan-Wanis-Ruiz-300x300.jpg 300w, https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Ivan-Wanis-Ruiz-12x12.jpg 12w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<p><em><em>\u201cEvery culture has introverts and extroverts, empathetic and non-empathetic people. These personal traits shape how we interact far more than broad cultural stereotypes. Culture provides a framework, but personality drives how communication actually plays out.\u201d<\/em><\/em><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>With that in mind, the best way to encourage your employees to get on the same page would be to <strong>facilitate meaningful conversations<\/strong> between them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>And, though not an ideal solution, <a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/virtual-team-bonding-activities\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">team-building activities<\/a> could help you <a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/ice-breaker-questions-for-virtual-meetings\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">break the ice<\/a> and nudge your team in the right direction.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Even starting meetings by asking what everyone had for lunch could spark a conversation and get everyone more curious about each other \u2014 which is the goal, after all.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"667\" src=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Anika-shares-her-lunch-plans-via-an-in-meeting-message-on-Pumble-a-business-messaging-app-min.png\" alt=\"\u201cEvery culture has introverts and extroverts, empathetic and non-empathetic people. These personal traits shape how we interact far more than broad cultural stereotypes. Culture provides a framework, but personality drives how communication actually plays out.\u201d\" class=\"wp-image-20258\" srcset=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Anika-shares-her-lunch-plans-via-an-in-meeting-message-on-Pumble-a-business-messaging-app-min.png 1200w, https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Anika-shares-her-lunch-plans-via-an-in-meeting-message-on-Pumble-a-business-messaging-app-min-540x300.png 540w, https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Anika-shares-her-lunch-plans-via-an-in-meeting-message-on-Pumble-a-business-messaging-app-min-1110x617.png 1110w, https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Anika-shares-her-lunch-plans-via-an-in-meeting-message-on-Pumble-a-business-messaging-app-min-768x427.png 768w, https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Anika-shares-her-lunch-plans-via-an-in-meeting-message-on-Pumble-a-business-messaging-app-min-18x10.png 18w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Anika shares her lunch plans via an in-meeting message on Pumble, a business messaging app<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n\n<div class=\"banner banner-dark pumble-gradient-features\">\n    <div class=\"banner-text lg:pr-[6rem]\">\n        <span class=\"h4 text-lg translation-block mb-0\">A simple yet powerful video conferencing app<\/span>\n        <p class=\"translation-block mt-1 mb-3\">Hop on a Pumble video call to get things done in real time.<\/p>\n\n        <div class=\"banner-buttons d-flex gap-4 align-items-center translation-block justify-content-center justify-content-sm-start\">\n            <a class=\"bg-white rounded px-3 py-1 text-gray-dark\" href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/register\" target=\"_blank\">Sign up<\/a>\n\n                    <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n\n    <div class=\"banner-image banner-image-middle \">\n        <picture>\n            <source srcset=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/themes\/cake-blog\/theme\/images\/banners\/features@2x.png 2x\" alt=\"Illustration\"  media=\"(min-width: 1022px)\" \/>\n            <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/themes\/cake-blog\/theme\/images\/banners\/features.png\"  alt=\"Illustration\" \/>\n        <\/picture>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n    \n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"how-the-right-tools-can-help-you-foster-a-culturally-intelligent-digital-workplace\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">How the right tools can help you foster a culturally intelligent digital workplace<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>If you\u2019re looking to improve cross-cultural communication in the workplace, you\u2019ll have to take a systemic approach to raising <a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/cultural-intelligence\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">cultural intelligence<\/a> and awareness.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>HR managers and leadership can do this by continuously emphasizing psychological safety at work so everyone feels respected and valued, as Sheriah Boehm told us:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns pro-blockquote is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"400\" height=\"400\" src=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Sheriah-Boehm.jpg\" alt=\"Sheriah Boehm\" class=\"wp-image-20253\" srcset=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Sheriah-Boehm.jpg 400w, https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Sheriah-Boehm-300x300.jpg 300w, https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Sheriah-Boehm-12x12.jpg 12w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 400px) 100vw, 400px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<p><em>\u201cAs an HR Manager, it is vital to:&nbsp;<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><em>Listen actively,&nbsp;<\/em><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><em>Approach differences respectfully, and&nbsp;<\/em><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><em>Create a safe, inclusive space where all employees feel valued.&nbsp;<\/em><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong><em>Cultural intelligence<\/em><\/strong><em>, which is the ability to adapt communication and behaviors to diverse cultural contexts \u2014 <\/em><strong><em>must continuously evolve as we evolve as an organization<\/em><\/strong><em>. Differences should be celebrated as strengths, and we should seek to build bridges rather than require everyone to adopt a single communication style.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>Of course, if you work in a multicultural organization, chances are that not all your employees share the same physical location, which can make it somewhat difficult to foster that sense of unity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>However, tools like Pumble by CAKE.com, a <a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/team-communication-app\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">team communication app<\/a>, can make it easy to set up a flexible communication hub that suits all employees, no matter what cultural background they come from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Pumble can provide the <strong>clarity required for low-context communication<\/strong> by letting you:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Organize communication into direct messages, group chats, <a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/features\/channels\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">channels<\/a>, and <a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/features\/threads\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">threads<\/a>, and<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Create an easily <a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/knowledge-sharing\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">searchable database<\/a> of messages and documents.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>On the other hand, the platform can also be used to <strong>enrich high-context communication<\/strong> through:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/learn\/pumble\/revolutionizing-communication-the-power-of-voice-and-video-messages\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Video and voice messages<\/a>, which deliver more nonverbal cues than text messages ever could (even though Pumble users can also use GIFs and emojis to communicate), and<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/video-conferencing\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Video conferencing<\/a> features, which allow users to have more genuine conversations but also keep meetings productive (with features like screen sharing, hand raising, and emoji reactions) and <a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/help\/using-pumble\/calls-and-meetings\/meet-recording\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">on the record<\/a>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>In other words, Pumble has features that can support all kinds of diverse communication styles.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><em>Overcome cross-cultural communication barriers with ease.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"custom-btn\"><a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/register\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Try Pumble today<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Your employees&#8217; cultural backgrounds affect the way they communicate. Use these strategies to improve cross-cultural communication in the workplace.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":11,"featured_media":20237,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[8],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-794","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-communication-tips"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/794","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/11"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=794"}],"version-history":[{"count":42,"href":"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/794\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":23893,"href":"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/794\/revisions\/23893"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/20237"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=794"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=794"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=794"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}