Cross-Cultural Communication in Global Teams

News Worth Talking About
Beginner Level | April 17, 2025

Read the article aloud on your own or repeat each paragraph after your tutor.

Working with People Around the World

Many companies today have teams in different countries. This means people from many cultures work together. English is often the common language, but good communication takes more than just words.

Why Culture Matters

Culture includes how people speak, write, and show feelings. For example, some people speak directly. Others speak softly or use more polite language. Some cultures like quick decisions. Others want more time. Understanding these differences helps teams work better.

How to Communicate Clearly

Here are a few easy tips to help you talk well with global coworkers:

Use simple and clear English. Avoid slang or complex words. For example, say “start” instead of “commence.”
Speak a little slower in meetings. This helps people from different language backgrounds follow your message better.
Check for understanding: “Did that make sense?” Ask politely to make sure others are following.
Be polite, even if you feel stressed. Say “please” and “thank you,” even during busy times.
Respect different ways of thinking or working. Some teammates may need more time or prefer written feedback.

These small actions help everyone feel included and understood.

Building Trust Across Cultures

Trust is important for any team. You can build trust by:

Being on time for meetings. This shows that you respect your teammates’ time.
Following up after a task. Send a quick message or email when you complete a task to keep everyone informed.
Saying thank you. Simple words like “Thanks for your help” go a long way in building good relationships.
Listening without interrupting. Let others finish speaking before you respond—it shows patience and respect.

When people feel respected, they share more ideas. This helps the team grow stronger.

Vocabulary

Culture (noun) – the way people live, talk, and think in a group
Every country has its own culture.
Global (adjective) – around the whole world
She works on a global marketing team.
Communication (noun) – sharing thoughts by speaking, writing, or signals
Good communication helps teams work well.
Direct (adjective) – clear and honest
He is very direct in his emails.
Polite (adjective) – showing respect
She always uses polite language.
Understanding (noun) – knowing what something means
Let’s check for understanding before we move on.
Included (adjective) – part of a group
He felt included in the team after the meeting.
Respect (verb) – to show care or value for others
We must respect each other’s time.
Interrupt (verb) – to stop someone while they are talking
Try not to interrupt during meetings.
Trust (noun) – belief that someone is honest and reliable
Trust helps the team work well together.

Questions About the Article

Why do companies have global teams?
What are some cultural differences in communication?
How can you make your English clear?
What are some ways to build trust?
Why is respect important on a team?

Questions About the Topic

Have you worked with people from other countries?
What do you find difficult in global teamwork?
What helps you understand others better?
How do you show politeness in your culture?
What can you do to build more trust at work?

Idiom of the Day: “On the same page”

Meaning: To understand and agree with someone
Example: “Let’s check if we’re on the same page before we send the report.”

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