Payton Carver
Western Governors University
Business Communication
Task 1
Cultural Sensitivity
This study source was downloaded by 100000898934525 from CourseHero.com on 05-12-2025 04:01:34 GMT -05:00
https://www.coursehero.com/file/156379260/WGU-C716-Task-1-Cultural-Sensitivitydocx/
, In a continuously booming global economy, more than ever companies are
plunging into the sphere of international business relationships. International
relationships can be very strenuous and difficult to maneuver, especially if one
isn’t as educated nor understands\ the depth and need for cultural sensitivity in
the midst of their international clients.
There are numerous ways that someone can be culturally insensitive, even
when they don’t mean to be. Things such as small hand gestures, tipping, and
avoiding condiments at restaurants. For example, it’s normal for us in the United
States to give a thumbs up; whether it’s a thumbs up to give a subtle approval to
a co-worker across the hall or to give a thumbs up to boost another salesperson
and give positive feedback on their work.
However, it is very unacceptable and offensive to give a thumbs up in countries
such as Greece, West Africa, South America, and other Middle Eastern Countries.
Giving a thumbs up in countries such as those, would be equal to holding up your
middle/ “bird finger”. A more acceptable way to “thumbs up” in countries such as
those would be to smile or nod! (Paul, 2017)
Not realizing the importance of addressing the need for cultural sensitivity
can place several risks on your business! For example, a sales representative in
your business meets with a potential international business partner in West
This study source was downloaded by 100000898934525 from CourseHero.com on 05-12-2025 04:01:34 GMT -05:00
https://www.coursehero.com/file/156379260/WGU-C716-Task-1-Cultural-Sensitivitydocx/
Western Governors University
Business Communication
Task 1
Cultural Sensitivity
This study source was downloaded by 100000898934525 from CourseHero.com on 05-12-2025 04:01:34 GMT -05:00
https://www.coursehero.com/file/156379260/WGU-C716-Task-1-Cultural-Sensitivitydocx/
, In a continuously booming global economy, more than ever companies are
plunging into the sphere of international business relationships. International
relationships can be very strenuous and difficult to maneuver, especially if one
isn’t as educated nor understands\ the depth and need for cultural sensitivity in
the midst of their international clients.
There are numerous ways that someone can be culturally insensitive, even
when they don’t mean to be. Things such as small hand gestures, tipping, and
avoiding condiments at restaurants. For example, it’s normal for us in the United
States to give a thumbs up; whether it’s a thumbs up to give a subtle approval to
a co-worker across the hall or to give a thumbs up to boost another salesperson
and give positive feedback on their work.
However, it is very unacceptable and offensive to give a thumbs up in countries
such as Greece, West Africa, South America, and other Middle Eastern Countries.
Giving a thumbs up in countries such as those, would be equal to holding up your
middle/ “bird finger”. A more acceptable way to “thumbs up” in countries such as
those would be to smile or nod! (Paul, 2017)
Not realizing the importance of addressing the need for cultural sensitivity
can place several risks on your business! For example, a sales representative in
your business meets with a potential international business partner in West
This study source was downloaded by 100000898934525 from CourseHero.com on 05-12-2025 04:01:34 GMT -05:00
https://www.coursehero.com/file/156379260/WGU-C716-Task-1-Cultural-Sensitivitydocx/
