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Life Progression Project and Lorraine Wiseman

Understanding how to effectively communicate cross-culturally, is more important today than ever before.  If you want to gain a strong understanding for how to communicate with people from different cultures than this is the course for you.  Cross-cultural Communication: How To Flex Your Style introduces you to a cultural profile which will help you understand how you perceive various cultures as well as different aspect of what makes people unique based on their personality compared to their cultural background. You will learn about Geert Hofstede's Model in detail, learning the six dimensions; power distance, individual vs. collective, assertiveness vs modesty, risk tolerance, short-term and long-term, and indulgence vs well-being. You'll learn all this and more and you'll learn how to do it in a way that's both informative and engaging.

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Understanding how to effectively communicate cross-culturally, is more important today than ever before.  If you want to gain a strong understanding for how to communicate with people from different cultures than this is the course for you.  Cross-cultural Communication: How To Flex Your Style introduces you to a cultural profile which will help you understand how you perceive various cultures as well as different aspect of what makes people unique based on their personality compared to their cultural background. You will learn about Geert Hofstede's Model in detail, learning the six dimensions; power distance, individual vs. collective, assertiveness vs modesty, risk tolerance, short-term and long-term, and indulgence vs well-being. You'll learn all this and more and you'll learn how to do it in a way that's both informative and engaging.

What Will I Learn?

  • How you perceive culture

  • The various cultural profiles

  • Culture vs personality

  • Geert Hofstede's Model

  • Verbal and non-verbal cues 

  • How to build rapport with someone from any cultural background

  • Using language appropriately

  • Expressions and gestures

  • Pace and timing

  • The importance of culture

  • How to flex your style to better suit different cultures

And more.

This course is also full of examples and activities that allow you to practice what you are learning. Work with Lorraine over 6 exercises and multiple examples to develop your skills and competencies around cultural communication.

Learning cultural communications will benefit you professionally as you gain skills and acquire tools that will enable you to better communicate with your co-workers, virtual assistants, shareholders and customers.  

This course brings Lorraine's 25+ years of experience and industry know-how, to you.  Her unique teaching style comes from her experience in presidential roles in 7 companies, in 6 countries around the world.

By the end of this course you will be able to confidently and effectively communicate cross-culturally, and by doing so, build stronger relationships, avoid offending people from different backgrounds and gain a better understanding of how to communicate with anyone.

We look forward to seeing you in the course.

CPE (Continuing Professional Education)

Learning Objectives

  1. List the various Cultural Profiles to distinguish the differences within a country.

  2. Explain the 6 components of Geert Hofstede's Model of National Cultural Dimensions.

  3. Identify verbal and non-verbal cues from various cultures.

  4. Explain culture both within a country and an organization.

  5. Define the individual differences seen in cross-cultural communication styles.

  6. Identify the key differences between a cultural profile and personality profile.

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What's inside

Learning objective

Learn how to communicate cross-culturally

Syllabus

In this section you will meet Lorraine and learn exactly what culture is!

Welcome to Cross-Cultural Communication!

In this lesson, your instructor Lorraine Wiseman will share her experience as a global leader and expert in Cross-Cultural Communication. Lorraine will share the tools you will learn in this course.

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In your own words, based on your definition of culture, select 5 different countries and describe their culture based on the information you have to date (without researching). Use your first impressions only.

In this section you will learn the importance of culture and how you perceive culture!

In this lesson you will learn exactly what culture is!

In this lesson you will learn about different definitions of culture from the perspective of countries; organizations; religious and communities.

In this lesson you will learn about your own mental models and the importance of putting them into perspective when thinking and collaborating with other cultures!

In this lesson you will learn about how intercultural cooperation and communication is important to the success of the work place and the global platform of business!

Using the 5 countries from Section 1, reflect on your perspective of those cultures and consider whether your perspective is based on facts or your assumptions as influenced by others.

Let's review what you learned in Section # 2

In this section we will explore the difference between culture and personality and the significance!

In this lesson we will define the characteristics of a cultural profile: dimensions of national cultures; differences according to region, ethnicity, religion, gender and class.

In this lesson you will learn about the cultural profile of gender!

In this lesson you will learn about the cultural profile of generation!

In this lesson you will learn about the cultural profile of social class!

In this lesson we will explore a personality profile, looking at the elements of human nature, our culture and our personalities.

In this lesson we explore the characteristics of personality: exploring DISC profiles and Myers- Briggs. 

http://www.humanmetrics.com/cgi-win/JTypes2.asp

http://www.discoveryreport.com/DiscoveryReportForm_quick.php

Let's look at cultural profiles and personality profiles and the risk of stereotyping.

Categorize each of the listed characteristics as a personality trait or a cultural trait.

Let's review what you learned in Section # 3

In this section you will learn all about the various dimensions of national culture!

In this lesson we will look at Hofstede's model and the seven characteristics used to define and differentiate culture.

In this lesson you will gain an understanding of the culture of power distance as it relates to families, society and the work place.

In this lesson you will gain an understanding of culture through the importance of the needs of the individual versus the needs of the collective.

In this lesson you will gain an understanding of the roles as defined by masculinity and femininity and the role of gender in culture.

In this lesson you will gain an understanding of culture through its reaction to uncertainty.

In this lesson you will gain an understanding of culture through long and short-term orientation; future rewards versus tradition and preservation of 'face".

In this lesson you will gain an understanding of culture through the tolerance for gratification of desires related to life and the need to curb such gratification through social norms.

Using Hofstede's model, compare the 5 countries you selected in Exercise 1; Compare and consider the similarities and differences between them; If you wanted to engage a company in that country, what approach to communication would you want to take? GO TO THIS SITE TO TRY OUT THE MODEL YOURSELF: https://www.hofstede-insights.com/product/compare-countries/

Let's review what you learned in Section # 4

In this section you will learn how to communicate with different cultures and how and when to flex their styles to better communicate cross-culturally

In this lesson you will learn how about the verbal and non-verbal cues that may take place when communicating cross-culturally and how to build rapport.

In this lesson you will learn about the differences in food, pace, music, family values and education and how these aspects can tell you about a culture.

In this lesson you will learn how to model that culture and we'll look at examples of where and when to flex your style.

In this lesson we explore language and how to appropriately use language by simplifying the words that you use; what does simple language mean to you?

In this lesson we will look at knowing the cues and being ready to adapt to different ways of saying hello; the familiar, the formal, and the handshake vs the bow.

In this lesson we explore using caution when using expressions and idioms when communicating across cultures; do's and don'ts; understanding the use of your hands while speaking.

In this lesson we look at the speed at which you speak and how this may impact your ability to be understood; setting the right pace for your conversation; understanding the different definitions of on-time.

In this lesson you will gain an understanding about how to give feedback; when is it okay to be direct and when is it not?

Let's review what you learned in Section # 5


In this section we will review what you've learned in this course!

Lorraine shares her final words of wisdom

In order to receive CPE credit for this course, you must a) complete all course content, and b) pass this qualified assessment with 70% or greater.

Good to know

Know what's good
, what to watch for
, and possible dealbreakers
Teaches learners how to communicate with different cultures, which is a vital skill for companies that want to engage globally
Provides a strong foundation in the various dimensions of national culture, such as power distance, individualism, and masculinity
Taught by a seasoned expert with over 25 years of experience in cross-cultural communication
Highly relevant for professionals who work in international business or with diverse teams
Provides learners with tools and techniques to build rapport and communicate effectively with people from various cultures
Includes exercises and examples to help learners practice and apply the concepts

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Reviews summary

Cross-cultural communications

This highly sought-after course is an excellent choice for anyone wanting to learn how to communicate effectively across cultures. From insights into defining culture and perceiving cultures to Hofstede's six dimensions of national culture, this course leaves no stone unturned. Additionally, this course provides learners with practical tips on building rapport with someone from any cultural background through effective use of language, appropriate expressions and gestures, and mindful observation of pace and timing.
The course empowers learners to communicate with confidence across cultures. It provides the knowledge, skills, and strategies necessary to navigate cultural differences effectively. With increased cultural awareness and competence, learners can build stronger relationships, avoid misunderstandings, and achieve their communication goals in any cultural context.
"The course empowers learners to communicate with confidence across cultures."
"It provides the knowledge, skills, and strategies necessary to navigate cultural differences effectively."
"With increased cultural awareness and competence, learners can build stronger relationships, avoid misunderstandings, and achieve their communication goals in any cultural context."
Throughout the course, there is a strong emphasis on developing cultural sensitivity. This involves recognizing and respecting cultural differences without judgment. It requires being open-minded, empathetic, and willing to learn about and adapt to new cultural perspectives. By cultivating cultural sensitivity, we can create inclusive and welcoming environments where everyone feels valued and respected.
"Throughout the course, there is a strong emphasis on developing cultural sensitivity."
"This involves recognizing and respecting cultural differences without judgment."
"It requires being open-minded, empathetic, and willing to learn about and adapt to new cultural perspectives."
The course provides a wealth of practical strategies for effective cross-cultural communication. It emphasizes the importance of understanding verbal and non-verbal cues, building rapport, using appropriate language, and adapting our communication style to different cultural contexts. By applying these strategies, we can bridge cultural gaps and foster meaningful connections.
"The course provides a wealth of practical strategies for effective cross-cultural communication."
"It emphasizes the importance of understanding verbal and non-verbal cues, building rapport, using appropriate language, and adapting our communication style to different cultural contexts."
"By applying these strategies, we can bridge cultural gaps and foster meaningful connections."
Geert Hofstede's model of national culture provides a framework for understanding cultural differences across countries. This model identifies six key dimensions: power distance, individualism vs. collectivism, masculinity vs. femininity, risk tolerance, long-term vs. short-term orientation, and indulgence vs. self-restraint. By comparing countries along these dimensions, Hofstede's model helps us predict and adapt to cultural variations.
"Hofstede's model of national culture provides a framework for understanding cultural differences across countries."
"This model identifies six key dimensions: power distance, individualism vs. collectivism, masculinity vs. femininity, risk tolerance, long-term vs. short-term orientation, and indulgence vs. self-restraint."
"By comparing countries along these dimensions, Hofstede's model helps us predict and adapt to cultural variations."
This course emphasizes understanding cultural profiles, which embody a shared set of values, beliefs, and behaviors within a specific cultural group. Cultural profiles encompass various dimensions, including national culture, organizational culture, religious culture, and generational culture. Recognizing and respecting these diverse cultural profiles is crucial for effective cross-cultural communication.
"Understanding cultural profiles is essential for effective cross-cultural communication, as they embody a shared set of values, beliefs, and behaviors within a specific cultural group."
"Cultural profiles encompass various dimensions, including national culture, organizational culture, religious culture, and generational culture."
"Recognizing and respecting these diverse cultural profiles is crucial for effective cross-cultural communication."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Cross-Cultural Communication: How To Flex Your Style with these activities:
Watch TED Talks on cross-cultural communication
Provide exposure to different perspectives and insights on cross-cultural communication.
Show steps
  • Search for TED Talks on cross-cultural communication.
  • Watch at least three TED Talks.
  • Summarize the main points of each TED Talk.
  • Reflect on the implications of the TED Talks for your own communication practices.
Read 'The Culture Map' by Erin Meyer
Introduce key concepts and frameworks for understanding and navigating cultural differences in communication.
Show steps
  • Read the chapter on 'The Eight Scales of Culture'.
  • Take the Culture Map self-assessment tool.
  • Identify the cultural differences between your own country and the countries you interact with most frequently in your work.
Mentor a student from a different culture
Provide an opportunity to share your knowledge and experience with someone from a different culture and learn from them in return.
Show steps
  • Find a student from a different culture who is interested in learning about cross-cultural communication.
  • Meet with the student regularly and discuss topics related to cross-cultural communication.
  • Share your own experiences and insights.
  • Learn from the student's experiences and perspectives.
Five other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all eight activities
Volunteer with an organization that works with people from different cultures
Provide an opportunity to put your cross-cultural communication skills into practice and make a difference in your community.
Show steps
  • Find a volunteer opportunity with an organization that works with people from different cultures.
  • Attend a training program to learn about the organization's mission and values.
  • Volunteer your time and interact with people from different cultures.
  • Build relationships and learn about different cultures.
Role-play cross-cultural communication scenarios
Provide practice in applying cultural communication principles in real-world settings.
Show steps
  • Choose a scenario from the course materials.
  • Identify the cultural differences that are relevant to the scenario.
  • Develop a strategy for communicating effectively in the scenario.
  • Role-play the scenario with a partner.
  • Reflect on the experience and identify areas for improvement.
Attend a cross-cultural networking event
Provide an opportunity to connect with people from different cultures and learn about their communication styles.
Show steps
  • Find a cross-cultural networking event in your area.
  • Attend the event and introduce yourself to people from different cultures.
  • Ask questions about their communication styles and experiences.
  • Share your own experiences and insights.
Attend a cross-cultural communication workshop
Provide structured learning and practice opportunities under the guidance of an expert.
Show steps
  • Find a cross-cultural communication workshop in your area.
  • Attend the workshop and participate in the activities.
  • Learn about the latest research and best practices in cross-cultural communication.
  • Network with other professionals who are interested in cross-cultural communication.
Develop a cross-cultural communication plan
Provide an opportunity to apply the principles of cross-cultural communication to a real-world project.
Show steps
  • Identify a specific communication goal that you want to achieve with a cross-cultural audience.
  • Research the cultural backgrounds of your audience.
  • Develop a communication strategy that takes into account the cultural differences between you and your audience.
  • Create a communication deliverable, such as a presentation, a report, or a marketing campaign.
  • Present or share your communication deliverable with your audience.

Career center

Learners who complete Cross-Cultural Communication: How To Flex Your Style will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Interpreter
Interpreters translate spoken and written words from one language to another. They may work in a variety of settings, such as government, business, and healthcare. This course would be useful for interpreters because it provides a foundation in cross-cultural communication. The course covers topics such as how to build rapport with people from different cultures, how to use language appropriately, and how to flex your style to better communicate cross-culturally. By completing this course, interpreters can gain the skills they need to be successful in their field.
Cultural Anthropologist
Cultural anthropologists study the behavior, beliefs, and languages of different cultures. This course would be particularly relevant to cultural anthropologists because it provides a foundation in cross-cultural communication. The course covers topics such as verbal and non-verbal cues, how to build rapport with people from different cultures, and how to use language appropriately. By completing this course, cultural anthropologists can gain the skills they need to effectively communicate with people from all over the world.
Peace Corps Volunteer
Peace Corps volunteers work in developing countries to promote peace and understanding. They may work in a variety of fields, such as education, health, and agriculture. This course would be useful for Peace Corps volunteers because it provides a foundation in cross-cultural communication. The course covers topics such as how to build rapport with people from different cultures, how to use language appropriately, and how to flex your style to better communicate cross-culturally. By completing this course, Peace Corps volunteers can gain the skills they need to be successful in their field.
Cultural Consultant
Cultural consultants help organizations understand and adapt to different cultures. They may work with businesses, governments, or non-profit organizations. The course would be useful for cultural consultants because it provides a foundation in cross-cultural communication. The course covers topics such as how to build rapport with people from different cultures, how to use language appropriately, and how to flex your style to better communicate cross-culturally. By completing this course, cultural consultants can gain the skills they need to be successful in their field.
Multicultural Educator
Multicultural educators teach students about different cultures. They may work in schools, universities, or community organizations. This course would be useful for multicultural educators because it provides a foundation in cross-cultural communication. The course covers topics such as how to build rapport with people from different cultures, how to use language appropriately, and how to flex your style to better communicate cross-culturally. By completing this course, multicultural educators can gain the skills they need to be successful in their field.
Global Manager
Global managers oversee the international operations of their companies. They are responsible for developing and implementing strategies for growth and profitability. This course would be useful for global managers because it provides a foundation in cross-cultural communication. The course covers topics such as how to build rapport with people from different cultures, how to use language appropriately, and how to flex your style to better communicate cross-culturally. By completing this course, global managers can gain the skills they need to be successful in their field.
Diplomat
Diplomats represent their countries abroad. They work to maintain relationships with other countries and to promote their country's interests. This course would be useful for diplomats because it provides a foundation in cross-cultural communication. The course covers topics such as how to build rapport with people from different cultures, how to use language appropriately, and how to flex your style to better communicate cross-culturally. By completing this course, diplomats can gain the skills they need to be successful in their field.
International Marketing Manager
International marketing managers are responsible for developing and implementing marketing strategies for international markets. This course would be useful for international marketing managers because it provides a foundation in cross-cultural communication. The course covers topics such as how to build rapport with people from different cultures, how to use language appropriately, and how to flex your style to better communicate cross-culturally. By completing this course, international marketing managers can gain the skills they need to be successful in their field.
International Business Development Manager
International business development managers are responsible for developing and implementing strategies for growth and profitability in international markets. This course would be useful for international business development managers because it provides a foundation in cross-cultural communication. The course covers topics such as how to build rapport with people from different cultures, how to use language appropriately, and how to flex your style to better communicate cross-culturally. By completing this course, international business development managers can gain the skills they need to be successful in their field.
Human Resources Manager
Human resources managers are responsible for managing the human capital of their organizations. They oversee employee relations, recruitment, and training. This course would be useful for human resources managers because it provides a foundation in cross-cultural communication. The course covers topics such as how to build rapport with people from different cultures, how to use language appropriately, and how to flex your style to better communicate cross-culturally. By completing this course, human resources managers can gain the skills they need to be successful in their field.
Project Manager
Project managers plan, execute, and close projects. They may work in a variety of industries, such as construction, engineering, and software development. This course may be useful for project managers because it provides a foundation in cross-cultural communication. The course covers topics such as how to build rapport with people from different cultures, how to use language appropriately, and how to flex your style to better communicate cross-culturally. By completing this course, project managers can gain the skills they need to be successful in their field.
Policy Analyst
Policy analysts advise governments and other organizations on public policy. They may work in a variety of fields, such as education, healthcare, and environmental protection. This course may be useful for policy analysts because it provides a foundation in cross-cultural communication. The course covers topics such as how to build rapport with people from different cultures, how to use language appropriately, and how to flex your style to better communicate cross-culturally. By completing this course, policy analysts can gain the skills they need to be successful in their field.
Public relations manager
Public relations managers manage the communication between organizations and the public. They may work for businesses, governments, or non-profit organizations. This course may be useful for public relations managers because it provides a foundation in cross-cultural communication. The course covers topics such as how to build rapport with people from different cultures, how to use language appropriately, and how to flex your style to better communicate cross-culturally. By completing this course, public relations managers can gain the skills they need to be successful in their field.
Social Worker
Social workers help people cope with personal and social problems. They may work in a variety of settings, such as schools, hospitals, and community centers. This course may be useful for social workers because it provides a foundation in cross-cultural communication. The course covers topics such as how to build rapport with people from different cultures, how to use language appropriately, and how to flex your style to better communicate cross-culturally. By completing this course, social workers can gain the skills they need to be successful in their field.
Recruiter
Recruiters find and hire new employees for organizations. They may work in a variety of industries, such as technology, healthcare, and finance. This course may be useful for recruiters because it provides a foundation in cross-cultural communication. The course covers topics such as how to build rapport with people from different cultures, how to use language appropriately, and how to flex your style to better communicate cross-culturally. By completing this course, recruiters can gain the skills they need to be successful in their field.

Reading list

We've selected eight books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Cross-Cultural Communication: How To Flex Your Style.
Comprehensive overview of the field of intercultural communication. It covers a wide range of topics, including the history of intercultural communication, theoretical approaches, and research methods.
Provides a framework for understanding cultural differences in the workplace. It identifies eight key dimensions of culture and provides practical advice on how to adapt to different cultural contexts.
Comprehensive guide to cross-cultural communication, covering a wide range of topics, including the importance of culture, how to build rapport with people from different cultures, and how to avoid misunderstandings. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about cross-cultural communication.
Provides a comprehensive overview of intercultural communication, with a focus on practical strategies for effective communication across cultures. It covers topics such as cultural values, communication styles, and nonverbal communication.
Provides a psychological perspective on intercultural communication. It covers topics such as the role of perception, cognition, and emotion in intercultural interactions.
Collection of essays on intercultural communication from a variety of perspectives. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about the theory and practice of intercultural communication.
Provides a comprehensive overview of nonverbal communication, with a focus on how it varies across cultures. It covers topics such as gestures, facial expressions, and body language.
Provides a comprehensive overview of intercultural communication in the global workplace. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about how to communicate effectively with people from different cultures in a business setting.

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