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Seek training. Especially if an organization is experiencing diversity problems, awareness-raising sessions may be helpful. Spend time reading and learning about workforce diversity and how it can benefit organizations. Look upon diversity as an opportunity, not a threat. Intercultural communication, team building, and conflict resolution are skills that can be learned in diversity training programs. Learn about your cultural self. Begin to think of yourself as a product of your culture, and understand that your culture is just one among many.

Avoid assigning nonverbal meanings out of context. Don’t interpret nonverbal behavior unless you understand a situation or a culture. Associate with people from diverse cultures. Learn about other cultures to widen your knowledge and tolerance of intercultural nonverbal messages. Appreciate the power of appearance. Keep in mind that the appearance of your business documents, your business space, and yourself sends immediate positive or negative messages to receivers. Observe yourself on video. Ensure that your verbal and nonverbal messages are in sync by recording and evaluating yourself making a presentation.

They assume that listeners know very little and must be told practically everything. Low-context cultures tend to be logical, analytical, and action oriented. Business communicators stress clearly articulated messages that they consider to be objective, professional, and efficient. Words are taken literally. 7 Comparing High- and Low-Context Business Communicators Culture has a powerful effect on business communicators. The following observations point out selected differences. Remember, however, that these are simplifications and that practices within a given culture vary considerably.