Communication Skills Needed For Successful Interactions With America's Largest Trading Partners

To compete successfully in the international arena, U.S. companies conducting business abroad should arm themselves with knowledge of the communication customs of people of other cultures, especially America's top trading partners. Communication skills that are highly visible during intercultural encounters include greetings, introductions, and business cards; conversational customs; dining and tipping; dress and appearance; and nonverbal communication. Suggestions for classroom activities teachers may use to integrate intercultural communication skills into various business courses are included in the paper.