Impact of Language

Language, verbal and non-verbal, plays an important role in the effective functioning of your global team. It is important to keep these things in mind:

* Although the international language is English, not everyone is equally comfortable using it.
* Those who have stronger language abilities will feel more confident to express themselves, especially when speaking. This might interfere with the ability of team members to make their maximum contribution.
* Non-verbal communication has different degrees of importance in different cultures.

Here are some helpful hints:

* Provide additional opportunities for all team members to contribute more easily by providing follow-up materials to phone calls in which you request input, and by offering a detailed agenda before the call or meeting so that individuals can prepare.
* Non-verbal communication is powerful. Encourage your team to learn about the ways in which members express negative concepts.
* Silence can mean agreement, disagreement, or contemplation. So, be careful not to make assumptions.
* Some cultures have great difficulty expressing disagreement or disapproval. They will find a variety of ways to say “no.” Use clarifying language whenever possible.