Mr. Ernesto Saborio
Business 600
Final Paper
August 27, 2012
By Keith Alston

In today's workplace, communication is the key of every aspect of your job. With the increased globalization of workplace settings across most industries, today’s managers need a more precise understanding of intercultural communication in an effective management strategy. It is important that managers proactively engage in communication skills assessment and make necessary adjustments in order to address the current needs of today’s increasingly diverse workforce. When assessing intercultural communication, it is important to have a plan in place and keep these points in mind like knowing your team and doing your homework. While getting to know as many cultures as possible is a noble endeavor, in reality managers are strapped for time like everyone else. If your functional outsourcing group is diverse, or you have recently hired a new group of employees, or your company is reaching out to more overseas investors, then you have a great opportunity to develop more effective intercultural communication skills that will be most applicable to your team. Just as in any group, there are differences among individuals, and understanding general distinctions within a cultural group is important. Do your homework without singling out individuals. One major area is religious beliefs. After honing their own intercultural skills, managers should be able to lead effective training sessions to explain nuances of several cultural beliefs that may impact work related situations. If a team member’s religion requires prayer during the day, remember not to schedule essential meetings at that time; this will convey the message that the team member is important. Allowing flexibility around holy days when possible builds an appreciation of management. Gender balance in groups is important to those who