CROSS-CULTURAL ADAPTATION

HERE ARE SOME TIPS ABOUT DEVELOPING CROSS-CULTURAL ADAPTATION SKILLS

Learn the language by using it. Language is your key to involvement in your new culture.  Even if you can't speak perfectly, your attempts to communicate in the native language will be appreciated. Remember that understanding others and making yourself understood in a new language requires more rephrasing, repeating, and rechecking than usual.

Don't assume that you know everything about what is happening around you. Listen and observe carefully, paying special attention to nonverbal clues that give insight into the process of cross-cultural communication.

A natural tendency to immediately attach a good or bad label to all you observe or experience can be a major stumbling block to understanding and participating in a new culture. Observe and describe, but accept others on their integrity before evaluating.

Empathize that means to put yourself in the other person's place and look at the situation from his/her perspective. This is especially important when cultural differences are involved in the situation. Recognize that your anxiety is natural. Communication and adjustment across cultures is not easy; there is often a stress factor involved in interaction between people from differing cultures. Openness, a willingness to take risks and an ability to laugh at one's mistakes can help you deal productively with anxiety.

Be honest. If you are confused about something or if misunderstandings arise, it is usually best to admit your confusion rather than pretend that everything is all right.

Become involved. Show your willingness  more