Cross- cultural Communication This page intentionally left blank

Participation styles
The chair has to cope with a wide variety of cultural styles, which include 
the following:
The British usually adopt a realistic and pragmatic approach, and may offer 
opinions in areas outside their professional expertise or specialization.
The Germans tend to be well prepared and make a contribution only 
when they feel well qualified and competent to do so. They do not appre-
ciate interruption or contradiction.
The French are models of rational thought and expect to win their points 
by logical argument.
The Dutch are usually forthright, sometimes appearing blunt, but can use 
humour as the British do to reduce conflict or tension.
The Americans often appear combative and assertive to other cultures. 
Anyone can speak but will defer to seniors at the point when decisions 
need to be made.
Gaining agreement
The chair will strive to achieve agreement, but needs to be aware that diffe-
rent cultures see the process of gaining consensus differently:
Americans and most North Europeans will usually agree to what they feel 
committed to carry out.
The British are more inclined to compromise in order to gain consensus.
The French tend to favour adopting the best idea.
High- context cultures have a different approach from low- context cultures.
Decisions may be made either by a unanimous vote or by a majority – the 
method to be used should be made clear at the outset.
Socializing
Arrangements for both formal and informal occasions for socializing must 
be carefully made. The need to socialize, and particularly to network, is 
important to all cultures. Attention should be paid on formal occasions to 
seniority and status when arranging seating. There should also be agreement 
as to the amount of time devoted to socializing and whether spouses or 
partners should be involved.
Follow-up
As in all meetings, it is essential to maintain the momentum. Translations 
may be necessary regarding key decisions and action points. Minutes should 
be circulated for agreement by all concerned and then issued as soon as 
possible. If necessary, dates for future meetings should be decided and 
publicized, with dates fixed for further review if required.
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156 Cross-Cultural Communication