3 Reasons why Cross-Cultural Communication alone might cost you your career

*For each month , we will be talking about "Cross-culturale Communication". What it is and why it is important for modern legal and Finance professionals. Read on for our first article on the topic!

??Prelude

It was during a sales call that I had really thought about cross-cultural communication. I was on a Zoom call with a prospective client who poured out all the feedback her current CEO had given her in regards to her performance.

"He says I have a communication problem"; She explained. "He didn't say anything about my English, but we can't seem to understand each other."

After a brief evaluation, it had come to my attention that this prospective client didn't have the level of proficiency in her company's operating language. I recommended one of our programs at Executive Languages Global, which the client neither denied or accepted (After doing business in Mexico for 5 years, I've come to learn that this is a typical behavior, but one that creates frustration to NO END for anyone dealing with this. If you're reading this, please don't do it).

Then shortly thereafter (thanks to my strangely interconnected network), I was told that this prospective client had been fired from her dream FinTech job - mainly due to her inability to communicate with the CEO. Although I already saw it coming, I couldn't help but think about how often this happens and we blame it on someone's language skills.

Having coached lawyers and finance professionals in international corporations for five years, I have observed that the importance of cross-cultural communication in these fields often goes overlooked. Many of my clients initially believed that their communication challenges stemmed solely from their proficiency in the English language, but there were deeper factors at play. For professionals navigating diverse and multicultural business environments, three key obstacles hinder their progress: communication ability, exposure, and access to information. Since my focus primarily lies with non-native English speakers, I will address these issues from that perspective.

Firstly, exposure and gaining access to information are hurdles that can be overcome with relative ease. Developing professional exposure is a matter of diligence on platforms like LinkedIn and actively engaging with the numerous social networks available today. By immersing oneself in relevant communities and forging connections, professionals can expand their network, access valuable information, and stay abreast of industry trends. Additionally, while vast information may be predominantly available in English or confined to specific platforms, with a curious mindset and appropriate guidance, it is possible to source that information with an extra tap on the keyboard.

However, when it comes to communication, it is a skill that necessitates deliberate practice, acquisition, and refinement through continuous feedback and coaching. Proficiency in a language goes beyond mere grammar and vocabulary; it encompasses understanding cultural nuances, adapting to diverse communication styles, and effectively conveying ideas and intentions.

And for today's lawyers and finance professionals, there are the following additional three reasons as to why communication is crucial.

1. Globalization (in particular, your sector!)

Globalization has transformed the legal and financial sectors, creating workplaces where professionals collaborate with colleagues, clients, and stakeholders from diverse cultural backgrounds. We now have international clients, usually in the form of companies with various locations around the world. Our colleagues we collaborate with are now coming to us from different parts of the world. In places like Mexico, where constant economic exchange between the U.S happens, it would be rash not to consider the communication style of your business partner from the north of the border. In this respect, non-native English speakers encounter unique challenges, such as language barriers, differences in communication styles, and varying cultural norms.

2. Building Trust and Strengthening Relationships

In a global business context, trust and relationship-building are fundamental for lawyers and finance professionals. Cross-cultural communication skills enable professionals to understand cultural nuances, adapt their communication style, and demonstrate respect for different customs and practices. By appreciating cultural differences and effectively navigating them, you can build trust, reduce misunderstandings, and establish enduring relationships that are vital for long-term success. This is especially true for law firms, where building trust and deeper relationships with their clients is vital for survival.

3. Enhancing Negotiations and Conflict Resolution

Negotiations and conflict resolution often require lawyers and finance professionals to bridge cultural gaps and find mutually beneficial solutions. Cross-cultural communication skills allow professionals to navigate diverse negotiation styles, understand cultural influences on decision-making, and adapt their approaches accordingly. I've seen this become more important in conflict resolution, where two different expectations have come to crash - usually resulting in broken business relationships and (in the worst case) dismissal from positions.

When re-designing our program at Executive Languages Global this year, I thought about the prospective client mentioned before. Then I also think about how many individuals suffer in silence, or end up taking language classes that don't help them for their workplace.

By honing their communication skills, embracing diverse perspectives, and seeking ongoing feedback and coaching, I have seen individuals break through barriers and reach the opposite of what happened to the prospective client at the Fintech firm.

Gain the competitive edge you need to thrive in your law firm or financial institution. Don't let language proficiency be your only focus; develop your intercultural competence and open doors to new opportunities.

By the way, I've done the work and figured out a solution so you don't have to do it alone. A customized solution for you is available here

We will explore more topics on Cross-cultural communication next week - feel free to comment & share as I would love to hear from you ????♀?

Coco