Answer to Question 1
Decoding is the process of translating the received symbols into the interpreted message. The main causes of incongruence are: 1. the receiver misinterprets the message, 2. the receiver encodes his or her return message incorrectly, or 3. the sender misinterprets the feedback.
Answer to Question 2
One not-for-profit group, called Business for Diplomatic Action, has the following advice for Americans when doing business abroad, in its attempts to counteract the stereotypical American traits such as boastfulness, loudness, and speed. Familiarize yourself with the local geography to avoid making insulting mistakes; dress up; avoid talking about wealth, power, or status; avoid using slang and speaking fast; listen as much as you talk; and refrain from discussing religion and politics.
