According to
Education.com, intercultural communication is, "verbal
and nonverbal communication among people of different cultures".
Every culture has their own set of norms and messages may not
translate the same way. Religion, economics, and political factors
are are a fraction of what contributes to what makes to making each
culture unique. Language as well as societal differences present
barriers that can be difficult to overcome. The internet and
technology has made global communication possible. As a result, for
communicators in any industry, workplace, or social setting, it is
crucial to keep intercultural communication factors in mind while
presenting content. How different cultures interpret a message could
lead to miscommunication, awkward situations, and hurt feelings.
Therefore, in order to be sensitive to other cultures, it is
important to acknowledge the audience's background.
One
example of of why intercultural communication needs to be taken into
consideration is each cultures' sense of humor varies. What's
considered funny in one part of the world may be offensive in
another. For example, Sheida
Hodge,of the Cross-Cultural Division for Berlitz International Inc.
pointed out the differences between American and British humor. She
said, "Americans, because we are individualistic and confident,
tend to do a lot of put-down humor. It's
a big deal for the British; they believe it breaks tension, but their
sense of comedy is different. They use more irony, which Americans
may mistake for sarcasm."(ChinaDaily.com) By
being aware of these differences, communicators will be able to
effectively communicate with others from around the world.
Works
Cited
"Humor
Is No Laughing Matter Overseas." China
Daily.
ChinaDaily.com, 6 Apr. 2004. Web. 27 July 2012.
<http://www.chinadaily.com.cn/english/doc/2004-04/06/content_321053.htm>.
"Intercultural
Communication." Education.com.
N.p., n.d. Web. 27 July 2012.
<http://www.education.com/definition/intercultural-communication/>.
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