Cross Cultural Challenges

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Document about cross cultural challenges, cross cultural perceptions regarding globalization, business etc. What are some of the common issues most run into?

Common cross-cultural challenges in business include the problems of communication. First, there are problems that are related to language. Second, there are problems related to the degree of formality that needs to be used. Third, the degree of directness in communications that is required for business transactions. Fourth, there is the problem of relationship formation before any meaningful business can be transacted. Fifth, there is lack of understanding of tradition and unspoken signals. Sixth, there are religious gaps that are related to unspoken signals. Seventh, there is the issue of time gap that is required before business is discussed. Eight, there are issues that are related to gestures, colors and festivals that are specific to countries and cultures but not easily comprehensible to the global businessman.

Besides there are many cultures that value collectivism, this creates a barrier for a person who is from a culture that is primarily individual in nature. Moreover, there are several cultures that do not take contracts as watertight and feel that these can be changed according to the needs. Those cultures that value uncertainty avoidance will not be willing to take risks. Further, there are some cultures that are prominently feminine; a masculine global business will find it difficult to deal with such a customer. In many cultures, personal relationships are emphasized and indirect means are used to avoid straightforward conflicts.

This part is taken from the site: http://gbr.pepperdine.edu" Successful managers in the new global business reality will be able to deal with ...