Cultural Barriers - The Complexity of Bi-Cultural Business

     As Canadians we live in a world of many cultures. From east to west, our country presents a plethora of diversity, which renders it a unique and interesting place to live. A fascinating country where people of all ages, religions, colors and creed are able to live together in our home we call Canada. As Canadians we are at an advantage, due to our access to many different cultures and languages from across the planet, and should therefore maximize on these opportunities. As a country and as a people, this diversity places us at an advantage.

    When we ask ourselves what the meaning of culture is, different people will come up with different answers. As Canadian-born individuals, we often fail to see that differences exist amongst our society and the challenges we may face in cross-cultural communication. The obvious to some should not be overlooked for others. Although we may speak the same language, many ideas, thoughts, comments, behaviors, customs and celebrations can be misconstrued.

    People see, hear and think differently depending on their upbringing. For example, within the Asian and Middle Eastern cultures it is not customary for a woman to offer her hand in a greeting. When faced with something like this, follow the lead of others, or perhaps ask. It can be a difficult situation not knowing how to comport one-self, but being aware of these differences will denote well-roundedness. Western culture should never be imposed on people of other backgrounds, but can certainly be shared tactfully without being offensive.

    This is not a quick fix to effective communication with people of different cultures. It is merely a stepping-stone to understanding and working with diversity. Bilingualism does not make one bi-cultural. Culture entails much more than a language. Culture, as defined in Webster’s Dictionary is, “The sum total of the attainments and activities of any specific period, race or people, including their implements, handicrafts, agriculture, economics, music, art, religious beliefs, traditions, language and story.” This definition alone helps us to understand the complexity of culture and the importance of learning and understanding each facet.

    Another example of cross-cultural differences is that of maintaining eye contact. In Chinese and Vietnamese cultures direct eye contact in a formal situation is seen as disrespectful, rude or arrogant; whereas within Western culture, the lack of eye contact denotes the avoidance of truth to a particular question, shyness, insecurity or lack of interest. When in doubt of how to act or what to say, always follow the lead of the host or hostess. In order to be effective in both our business and our personal lives, we must be aware of these differences, learn about them and embrace them. By thinking outside the box, we will become more effective communicators and hence more successful in our endeavors.

    Another very important point to consider amongst people’s differences is the way in which they worship. Religion is very important to many cultures and respecting their religion is equally important. There are specific times of the day, for example, in which people of the Muslim faith are required to pray. Ensuring that one’s daily routine can be practiced within their work environment will result in a more peaceful and serene work place, community, environment, etc.

    There are varying degrees of faith within culture, and in order to avoid conflict, one should steer clear of the topic of religion. Many societies are not accustomed to speaking freely about religion and may be offended if the topic arises. The same can be said of politics. In a very uncertain world of war and conflict, these are topics that bring about many opinions and could cause unnecessary tension.

    As a Western society, meal-times are not a central part of our daily routine. We often eat on the go, pick something up or skip meals all together. In many Latin American or European homes, meal-time is the most important time of the day. It becomes a social gathering where everyone talks and shares their events of the day and family is often the center of these discussions. In many Arab and African countries, people are accustomed to eating with their hands and one should be aware of these eating habits. Eating with the left hand is considered to be un-clean, therefore in order to maintain respect, even if one is left-handed, the right hand should be used during meal-time.

    As a society, we are sometimes afraid to ask questions of other cultures for fear of being incorrect. But as human beings we enjoy sharing what we know, especially when it gives us the opportunity of sharing things from one’s homeland, past or upbringing. As first or second generation immigrants, culture and traditions are upheld, and the opportunity to share it is welcoming. If we do not understand why a particular culture does what they do or says what they say, we should take the opportunity to ask, learn and understand. By establishing trust we can learn to create peace within cultures. It is also important to note that one should never generalize about people of particular cultures. There are always exceptions to these rules.

    Instability within people of different cultures is often due to lack of trust and understanding; but, by taking a moment to relate to one another, we would see that very little differences separate us, and that morals and values are the basis of many cultures. There is only one race, the human race!

    Pina Romolo is the CEO of LP Global Consulting Inc. She specializes in the globalization of SMEs. She is also the co-founder of a young entrepreneurs group called, “The Innovators”. Pina may be reached directly at 403.730.2552 or email her at promolo@lpglobalconsulting.com