Why Culture Matters So Much in the Workplace

English communication is so much more than just knowing the right words.

Effective communication requires understanding the culture behind the language - the unwritten rules about how, when, and why we use words in certain ways.

This is especially true for English, which is used in diverse cultural contexts around the world.

The same English sentence can have completely different meanings and effects depending on the cultural background of the speaker and audience.

For example, the notion of "saving face" is very important in many Asian cultures.

Directly criticizing or contradicting someone in public would cause them to "lose face" (be publically shamed), which should be avoided.

However, in Western cultures, open debate is often valued (and indeed expected) as a way to get to the truth.

If you are working in the West - don't be shy about voicing your opinions. In fact, the company is paying you for them. If you don't criticize or contradict someone in a professional and appropriate manner, then you will be seen as dishonest and not doing the job you are paid for. ??

An English speaker needs to understand these cultural differences to communicate effectively.

Another cultural dimension is the concept of time.

In most Western countries, time is seen as a limited resource that should be used efficiently.

Being late to meetings or deadlines is considered rude.

But in many Latin American and African cultures, time is viewed as fluid and flexible.

Appointments are treated as general guidelines rather than rigid schedules.

Even the choice and order of words can have cultural significance.

In formal English, putting the request or main idea at the beginning is preferred, such as, "Could you please send me the report when you get a chance?"

But in Korean culture, it is polite to provide context first and then make the request, such as, "I am waiting on the figures for the quarterly report. When you have a moment, could you send it over?"

Of course, cultural norms and assumptions are always evolving.

What was unacceptable 10 years ago may be perfectly appropriate today.

This makes cultural awareness even more critical for communicators.

We need to stay humble, curious, and sensitive to the subtle cues around us.

The bottom line is that language mastery alone does not guarantee effective communication.

By honing our understanding of culture alongside our grammar and vocabulary, we open new doors for connection and collaboration wherever we may be.

The power lies in respecting culture while using English as a tool to unite across divides.