Working in the International TV business? FOUR Tips for Better Cross-Cultural Communication.

One of the best parts of working in the international television business is getting to work with people from diverse cultures from around the world. But exactly what makes the international television business so exhilarating is also what can make it challenging. When negotiating agreements, giving feedback, or interacting with language difficulties, how do we not only deliver information but also forge strong relationships?: Check your American perspective at the door.

Especially in content, English is often the default language of our business. But just because a potential partner communicates with you in English doesn’t mean that you can expect them to conduct business the same way an American would. Some things to consider when you communicate across cultures. 

Some things to consider when you communicate across cultures:

The pace of business

Are you expecting your project to proceed at the same pace as it would if it were based in the US? Yes, some cultures move quickly but some don’t process information or requests in the same way. Many American companies have a lateral, decentralized management structure which allows for faster approvals. Conversely, many Asian companies use a hierarchical structure where decisions have to be signed off on by a single person. This can mean a longer time for any questions or approvals to move up the management chain. 

Formality

In America, we tend to be a less formal society and prize that trait in people. We are happy when people ask us to call them by their first name. Not all cultures value this. In Korea for instance, language is  based on hiearchy. You speak to your boss, a senior at your company or even someone who is older using a different sentence structure. Are you assuming an overly informal tone? 

Opinions

Again in the US, we value the opinions of others. In meetings here it is not unusual for the most junior executive to share their opinion. That might not be common in the culture you are working in. Don’t assume all opinions are welcomed or expected. 

Be Aware

So often clients from other countries keep track of our US holidays. Do you do the same? Don’t be that person who sends a contract or expect notes on a rough cut during Lunar New Year. Don’t send a request for a Zoom meeting during Golden Week in Japan. 

In short, remember that you come to the table with your own biases and expectations based on how business is done. So do your international clients. Working in another culture can be a rich, rewarding experience when you remember to be mindful, not judgmental, of cultural differences.