Cross Cultural Communication Consultants by:Neil Payne
Cross cultural communication consultants have come a long way in the short period of time such specialists have been in demand
. No longer are they expatriates with a few years overseas experience and the capability to impart their knowledge onto others. Cross cultural consultants now bring expertise that is founded upon a number of key factors.Cross cultural consultants generally have a broad knowledge and experience of two or more different cultures. This knowledge is then employed to assist companies and individuals overcome challenges brought about through cross cultural differences in business. Areas in which assistance is needed may range from relocation briefings to company mergers or management techniques. The ability to diagnose and treat cross cultural problems is developed through their experience in a number of different fields.
Academic Knowledge
Cross cultural consultants will generally have an academic background either in specific courses such as 'Cross Cultural Communication and Trade' or 'Cross Cultural Psychology' or in related courses such as 'International Relations' or 'Business Studies'. Their studies will equip them with the academic skills and knowledge of the field that will later be applied in the business context.
Business Know-how
It is critical for cross cultural consultants to have considerable business experience. If this is lacking then academic knowledge is not usually sufficient to understand the mechanics of business operations. In order to understand how things work and the different challenges facing managers and staff it is critical to have experienced it first hand.
Training Experience
Through courses and practical experience a cross cultural consultant will have knowledge of training techniques. This will include communication skills, presentation methods, the use of activities and utilization of different technology and media.
Living Abroad
Experience of living abroad, mixing with different cultures, speaking different languages and working in foreign offices is vital for any cross cultural consultant. Without having been exposed to a different culture how can one advise on working effectively with that culture? It is important that this emersion in the target culture has been to the extent that the cross cultural consultant can totally empathise with the culture and understand its dynamics.
Speaking a Foreign Language
Language carries with it cultural coding. All experts, commentators and linguists are unanimous that without knowledge of the language the culture can never be appreciated. A cross cultural consultant will therefore have this insider knowledge not only through living and working in a country but also by using and understanding the language.
The complexity and diversity of cross cultural challenges in the international business world is reflected in the broad knowledge and skills of cross cultural consultants. Drawing on expertise gained through a variety of interrelated fields, the cross cultural consultant is now truly a specialist of great importance.
For more information on the field please visit http://www.kwintessential.co.uk
About the author
Neil Payne is Director of London based cross cultural communications consultancy http://www.kwintessential.co.uk Tips to Energize Your Presentations by:Sandra Schrift A PR Question For Chinese Managers by:Robert A. Kelly Site Design....Site Disaster....What Do Your Visitors See? by:Debbie Reyes New Credit Scoring Model Could Help Millions by:James H. Dimmitt Hurdles to Cross Cultural Business Communication by:Neil Payne Attracting Clients With Ease by:Bernadette Doyle How to Achieve E-commerce Success -You Gotta Plan! by:Heidi Richards The Fine Art of Relationship Marketing by:Heidi Richards It Takes Two - How to Cultivate Profitable Alliances by:Heidi Richards Monday Morning Mindfulness 08/23/2004 by:Sandra Schrift BOOK REVIEW: Performance of Financial Institutions: Efficiency, Innovation, Regulation By: Patrick T. Harker and Stavros A. Zenios by:Andy George Defining Success Your Way! by:Ann Ronan, Ph.D. Only the Weak Ones Quit! by:Graham and Julie