The ex PM, her veg and cultural comms

Are you a tough battler, friendly helper or a logical thinker? Do you feel threatened when someone points a finger at you or makes eye contact for longer than what you think is polite?

What's good for you – 12 inches or 3ft (personal space, that is) - and are you intimidated by anyone invading it? Does fear of divine retribution mean you refuse to shake hands with a member of the opposite sex?

Crossing the cultural divide when you are communicating globally needs careful consideration.

I was once told by an international comms guru that at birth we are all 'a ball of pure potential'. It's what happens in the following years which shapes a person's view of the world.

Culture, status, wealth, religion, tradition – even the weather - can all affect how we behave and interact with others. It can be tough negotiating the global multi cultural minefield. When researching this a few years ago I discovered that US companies were at that time losing $2 billion a year because they didn't spend enough time or money preparing their people for foreign assignments. Over 30% of all mergers and acquisitions were failing because of cultural chasms. The same guru outlined some interesting personality traits about different nationalities. Apologies if anyone feels they are an exception! Her view was the Brits can be quite uptight and introspective, the Americans like to be in charge and the French are quite hierarchical and business titles and kudos matter enormously.

Then there are the distinct personality traits – the battlers, thinkers and helpers I have previously mentioned. These idiosyncracies transcend all cultures, but being aware they exist and knowing how to deal with them can make business communication far more effective.

Tough battlers move fast, are very ambitious, like to be in charge but rarely possess many people skills. Former British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher is a shining example. The following anecdote from a Conservative Party dinner is true...on my dog's life:

Waiter: "Madame, how would you like your steak cooked."

Mrs T: "I'll have it rare."

Waiter: "And the vegetables?"

Mrs T: "They'll have the same as me."

Logical thinkers, on the other hand, love detail, research and won't make any decisions until they have plenty of back-up. Friendly helpers are great listeners, team players and want people to be involved and happy.

Today's communicators have a great deal to think about when faced with the cultural divide. The challenge is to acknowledge the differences between personalities, cultures and countries and work with that insight, not against it.