Effective cross-cultural communications

I watched the Bulgarian and Romanian national directors of the Alpha course communicating and coordinating with the Orthodox leadership.  I was very impressed how well they understood the Orthodox traditions, and how comfortable they were working across denominational lines.  It made me realize, how much I can learn from them to effectively communicate cross-culturally.

How can we effectively talk to people we don't know?

There are two questions we can ask ourselves before we engage in conversation.  How do they see us?   Do they see us as a leaders, peers or subordinates? If they see us as leaders, then our conversations should be empowering, encouraging, uplifting and affirming.  If they see us as a peer, listen, collaborate and cooperate with them. If they see us as subordinates, be helpful, but in deeds, not in words. If in doubt, assume the lower rank.

Also, we can ask ourselves, if they are hostile, indifferent or interested.  With the hostile and indifferent, you only sow seeds of ideas, do not persuade or engage in discourses or debates.. The difference between those who are hostile and indifferent, is with the indifferent, you can ask permission if you can share your ideas with them.   But if they are interested, you can share (to a peer), or teach (to a subordinate).

How different styles of communications matter.

Use a certain amount of restraint in communicating with Christians of different denominations, until you have developed a close working relationship them.  When you share Scripture references, with some denominations, it will be received that you are projecting yourself as an expert, teacher or instructor.  Share your knowledge with others in the beginning, without using the actual Scripture numerical verse references, unless they see your role is a  teacher.

All Christians celebrate and rejoice in God's blessings, but as Americans, it is easy to appear as bragging. When sharing the success of the Alpha course, describe the success of the program, without using quantities and statistics.  If they are interested, they will ask you for more information.

When referring to our Lord and Savior, Western Christians might just say "Jesus".  But to be on the first name basis with the Lord is considered too informal for most cultures. It is better to show more reverence and respect by using His name with His title, Jesus Christ or just His title, Christ. (Similar approach we use when we address our doctors!).

Do not use metaphors, analogies, colloquialisms, homespun phrases.  Causal uses of words and phrases might work well with your close friends but will be translated literally in other countries and will at best be confusing and at worst be an insult.  The choice of words matter. 

Learn the language enough to say four or five important phrases: Thank you, you're welcome, please, excuse me, do you speak English?, where is...?

Before going overseas, spend some time locally with someone who is from that region. Use lessons on YouTube to hear and study their language and culture.

You are not going to be perfect, but all efforts in improving communications will have a positive impact.

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