Check understanding across cultures
Do not assume that a familiar phrase, silence or a polite agreement carries the same meaning for everyone. Use plain language and explain what a request means in practical terms, including the required action and timing.
Invite people to describe the next step in their own words rather than asking only “Do you understand?” Stay curious about individual preferences and avoid treating a person as a representative of an entire culture. Shared clarity is the goal, especially when teams work across countries and time zones.
A workplace example
A cross-country team agrees to respond soon, but people attach different meanings to that word. Replace it with an explicit date, time and timezone, and confirm who is responsible.
Try this in practice
- Use plain language and explicit timing.
- Check the next step in the other person’s words.
- Invite questions without judgement.
Which term in your current project needs a clearer shared definition?
More on empathy
Keep reading
Send the topic and decision needed in advance.
EmpathyWork with different communication stylesPeople may differ in how quickly they process information, how much detail they need and whether they prefer to think aloud.
EmpathyAsk better questions at workUse questions that invite information rather than defend a conclusion.
