1. Building Intercultural Communication Skills in a Globalized World

As organizations expand into global markets, business communicators need to become aware of their own culture and how it differs from other cultures. Cultural awareness allows professionals to communicate successfully with other cultures and to navigate the intercultural challenges of a globalized business world. The first step in overcoming intercultural obstacles is understanding the trends that drive globalization.

Identify the trend illustrated by the following example.

1.German brewery orders stationery from England using an online order form.

a.Declining domestic markets

b. Technological advancements

c. Favorable trade agreements

Identify the trend illustrated by the following example.

2. The United States imports tariff-free goods from Mexico.

a. Transportation advancements

b. Declining domestic markets

c. Favorable trade agreements

When companies expand into global markets, they must be aware of the different cultural environments they are entering. A successful business model in one country may not be successful in another. U.S. companies, such as Walmart, Best Buy, and Home Depot, for example, have struggled in certain overseas markets due to their inability to meet the needs and expectations of the local culture.