Cross-Cultural Communication

There can't be cross-cultural negotiations without communication. Immediately we see the first problem, difference in languages.

Both parties need to make an effort to overcome problems. The first thing you should do when there is a heated problem is to stop, listen and think, if necessary, step back and reflect on what is going on before you act because it is very possible you misinterpreted what had been said.
A possible solution to this problem is active listening, you repeat what you think you have heard so it can be confirmed that you understood well.
An other solution is to ask an intermediary who is familiar with both cultures and languages to follow the negotiations. They can also down strong statements that would be considered appropriate in the other culture. But a mediator can also cause an extra difficulty in communication. When he has the same culture as one of the parties, it could lead to bias. The mediator will be more supportive for that person, even when bias is not intended.

It is very important that people understand the potential problems of cross-cultural communication so they can take it into account.

cross cultural communication strategies
Lise Keirens