Cross-Cultural Communication

Cayman is a very multi-cultural country, with a large expatriate population from all facets of the globe, so naturally my circle of friends includes about eight different nationalities. Moreover, as a Recruiter, we are meeting so many people from all over the world and who come from very different cultures. 

As a Canadian, I grew up in a multi-cultural country and had the opportunity to meet people with various backgrounds, but it wasn't until I started working in recruitment in Cayman that I noticed so many cultural differences - from food to language and manners. 

Even in speaking with my colleagues, we often discover that we have very different ways of saying things, different vocabulary, etc. They will quite often see a perplexed look on my face and then someone else usually needs to translate for me before we can carry on the conversation, and vice versa. 

When dealing with people, both professionally and personally, it's important to be aware of - and sensitive to - any cultural differences that may exist. This can help to alleviate the possibility of misunderstanding and conflict. It can also help you to understand certain behaviours that may not be familiar to you. 

Do you work with or deal with people from different cultures? If so, have you ever encountered any difficulties or misunderstandings?