Saturday, March 21, 2009
General Tips on International Business Correspondence by Viktoryia Biheza
The most important element of having successful international business relationships is to appreciate and respect the cultural diversity of another country (or even another region of the United States for that matter), and try and learn what is acceptable and unacceptable to the people of that culture.
Remember, what goes for one country may be different for another, even a neighboring country. This might sound like an overwhelming task, particularly if you have clients or dealings in many countries. Remember that learning about the customs of different countries can be fun, and your efforts will be rewarded.
Correspondence, whether by e-mail, letter, or fax, is a vital aspect of international business, in which English is generally recognized as the language of communication. Make sure that you are writing to express and make it clear. Here are some tips:
1.Simplify your language. Avoid using jargon, big or vague words.
2. Make your sentences shorter, use present tense and active voice.
3. Choose words with one of few meanings. (address an issue, provide an address, etc.)
4. Avoid phrasal verbs (verbs with 2 or 3 words in them). Open up - expand, enlarge; carry on - continue; take advantage of - exploit, etc.
5. Use the simplest verb forms and choose words that are pronounceable.
6. Avoid redundant and wordy expressions.
It is equally important to keep in mind the international meanings and cultural associations that different colors, symbols, and images carry. A writer ought to pay special attention to the different connotations visual elements may hold and use any visual information only for intended audiences. Remember, simplicity is the key here.
Thus, acknowledging diversity when communicating with international companies and business partners, organizing the information for intended audiences, and being courteous will earn respect for any company and its products and services.
References
http://www.scribd.com/doc/13162090/Elementsss-of-International-English-Style-A-Guide-2-Writing-Correspondence-Reports-Technical-Documents-Internet-Pages-For-A-Global-Audience-MJ-
http://www.nfib.com/object/IO_32215.html
http://portal.acm.org/citation.cfm?id=946692
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
International business experience is vital to the wellbeing of today’s business professional. The world is becoming a smaller place, and countries are intertwined into a cinergy of great proportion professionals that do not adapt to change will be left behind.
ReplyDeleteV.
ReplyDeleteNice job on the Voki... Cute accent too :D.. You provide some simple tips on being effective and your script is nicely presented as well. Bravo!
Vikysha,
ReplyDeleteNice job on the Voki! you bring up very good points in dealing with international business correspondence. Keeping the verbage simple and not using jargon are good tips in communicating with international clients or business partners alike.
Great tips on international business as it pertains to professional writing. These tips will ensure we will be able to correspond and communicate effectively in today's global marketplace. GREAT JOB!
ReplyDeleteYou also need to include your name in the title of your posting. Thanks.
ReplyDeleteOutstanding post and voki, Viktoryia. I was hoping that someone would address the issue of international correspondence.
ReplyDelete