Business --- Cross Cultural Tips/ Audio Conferencing

Reading Comprehension
1. Cross cultural tips/ Audio conferencing
Cultural aspects
*Small talk is expected in the beginning and end of calls in certain countries.
*Repeat important education to guarantee understanding.
*Be patient if there is silence.
(people need time to remember words)
*Clarify if you are not sure.
*Cultures have a different rules for the use of last names.
(last names are safer)
*Some people mistake friendliness for unprofessionalism.
*Idiomatic language is more difficult to understand. Keep it simple.
*Silence means different things: agreement to some, indifference, non- understanding to others.
*Punctuality can be very important. Respect expectations.
*Directness can be seen as rude.
*Humor can be very personal and culturally specific.
(use with caution)
Audio conferencing
Background
Audio conferencing is now very common. It enables people in different locations, often international, to conduct a meeting via the telephone. Use the guidelines below.
Prior to the call
*Notify all participants of the time, date and call-in number of the meeting.
Beginning the call
*Select a location where you will nit be disturbed.
*Use a roll call to check participants are present and the lines are clear.
During the call
*Speak clearly and concisely.
*Always state your name before speaking.
*Direct your questions to a named individual.
*Reply to all the questions, even if you do not have an immediate answer.
*Do not interrupt.
*Summarize key points of the meeting and agree on action points before ending the ca
International calls
*International calls are costly for the company.
(plan thoroughly before you call)
*Check the local time of the office you are calling.
*Not everyone speaks English as well as you.
(send an email if necessary)