INTERNATIONAL WEBINAR : Cross-Cultural Business Communication

INTERNATIONAL WEBINAR : Cross-Cultural Business Communication

STEKOM University, Indonesia – An International Seminar entitled “Cross-Cultural Business Communication” presents a number of International speakers to discuss in more detail the importance of cross-cultural business communication in the era of globalization.

Opening Speech :

1.    Dr. Joseph Teguh Santoso (Rector STEKOM University) Indonesia

Speakers :

1.      Olena Semenog (Doctor of Pedagogical Sciences, Professor, Head of the Chair of Ukrainian Language and Literature) SSPU, Ukraine

2.      Marharyta Parshyna (PhD in Economic Sciences, Assoc Prof of International Economic Relations & Regional Studies Dept) UMCF, Ukraine

3.      Wibi Ardi Alvianto, M.Pd. (Lecture of Communication Visual Design Dept) STEKOM, Indonesia

Host : Setiyo Adi Nugroho, M.Kom. (Lecture of Computer System Dept) STEKOM, Indonesia

This International Webinar discusses the importance of cross-cultural business communication in the era of globalization. In this case, the speaker emphasized the importance of understanding cultural differences, languages, and values ​​to achieve effective collaboration in a diverse global market. In the seminar, Dr. Joseph Teguh Santoso (Rector of STEKOM University) Indonesia opened the seminar by introducing the topic of Cross-Cultural Business Communication.

In this seminar, Olena Semenog (Doctor of Pedagogical Sciences, Professor, Head of the Department of Ukrainian Language and Literature) SSPU, Ukraine discussed the importance of cross-cultural business communication from an educational perspective. In her presentation, she explained the tradition of educating families in linguistic and cultural analysis that emphasizes the importance of the native language in meeting the needs of communication and self-expression, as well as the simplicity of language in conveying feelings and messages. Respecting the native language and cultural values ​​when facing challenges in competition, and the use of simple words will reflect the values ​​of family and country. Simple words are important in language to describe the concept of beauty and family, as well as respect for the father figure in Ukrainian culture. On the other hand, the role of mothers in Ukrainian culture is also highly respected and considered important, because they are associated with prayer, kindness and affection. So teaching children the importance of respecting parents and communicating tolerantly and thinking critically in a cross-cultural context is the main thing in Ukrainian culture. In addition to respect for parents and the elderly, unity in cross-cultural communication is also important in Ukrainian culture.

Developing an understanding of world cultures through words and cross-cultural communication based on friendliness and respect needs to be applied in global business. In addition, no less important is maintaining the core values ​​of the organization while adapting to diverse cultures for the success of global business. Therefore, the balance between the core values ​​of the organization and diverse cultures is a principle in global business. Cross-country cooperation in higher education can also strengthen brotherhood and mutual success. The university's strategy in cooperation can be carried out through research centers with the aim of understanding and respecting different cultures and languages. So to avoid misunderstandings, a specialist is needed to discuss research topics.

Some important things to note in cross-cultural communication are mutual respect and understanding of culture and language without judgment. Next is the importance of maintaining traditional language for the older generation in Ukrainian culture because it can reflect respect and wisdom in communication. This is also important to understand cross-cultural communication in business in Indonesia. Although cultural and language standards are the same, there are still differences in dialects, language variations and traditions in each region of Ukraine. However, all are built on a sense of love, respect and a desire to help others. The difference in language used between the younger and older generations reflects traditional Ukrainian values.

Wibi Ardi Alvianto, M.Pd. (Lecturer of Visual Communication Design Department) STEKOM, Indonesia said that cross-cultural communication in business is very important to achieve organizational goals. Understanding the values, identity and culture of a region or country is the key to success in expanding business to other regions or countries. The importance of cross-cultural communication in business is demonstrated by the increasing expansion of products and services as well as communication technology that allows for more flexible exchange of information between countries. Cultural diversity plays an important role in global business communication that requires mutual understanding for business harmonization. In this case we need to understand the basic patterns of cultural differences such as communication style, attitudes towards conflict, approaches to completing tasks, decision-making styles and attitudes towards disclosure.

Verbal and nonverbal communication are important in building deep interpersonal relationships. Because messages sent nonverbally also support or complement verbal communication. Body language has an important meaning in nonverbal communication. Body movements and facial expressions can express a person's feelings and thoughts without words. So we also need to pay attention to facial expressions, eye contact, body movements and interpersonal distance in communicating. Basically there are differences in meaning in body language and eye contact in various cultures. For example, eye contact is considered different in Middle Eastern, Asian, African and Latin American countries compared to Western Europe.

Two-way interaction between terminals in a computer network or between internal computers is also very important in achieving common goals. Therefore, cross-cultural communication and understanding intercultural interactions have an important role in the growth of global business and technology. Through computer networks will help someone to connect with other people from different countries easily.

In a study that examines cultural backgrounds, it is suggested for each individual to understand differences and similarities, and avoid judging people based on their cultural origins before truly understanding them. Common barriers to cross-cultural communication include ethnocentrism, discrimination, stereotypes and indifference to cultural differences. Misunderstandings and conflicts can occur due to a lack of understanding of culture, language and social practices, as well as discriminatory attitudes and stereotypes. Therefore, strategies to improve cross-cultural business communication are needed to navigate the challenges and opportunities presented by the global market, and ensure effective collaboration and success in international skills. To ensure effective collaboration and success in international skills can be done through investment in cultural training, language skills and the use of technology. Cultivating a culture of inclusivity, adaptability and effective collaboration is important in facing a diverse global market landscape. So it is very important for organizations to prioritize this culture because of awareness and sensitivity to adapt. Adaptability is the foundation of success in the global market.

Next, regarding the handling of sexual acts in the workplace. Sexual acts in the workplace are indeed not justified and it is necessary to ensure that all people who are victims of sexual harassment in the workplace have the right to file a complaint and take action in accordance with company regulations. Prevention of sexual harassment in the workplace can be done through communication, education and special training to recognize and prevent harassment problems. Basically, every worker, job applicant and third party related to the company has the right to be treated with dignity and without discrimination. So we also need to encourage companies to apply sanctions and other disciplinary actions according to policies to create a work environment free from sexual harassment.