Business communicators can improve their cultural competency by ...

[dbose]

Business communicators can improve their cultural competency by
 
  A) becoming aware of their own biases.
  B) becoming more rigid and less flexible.
  C) avoiding humor.
  D) apply the Golden Rule wherever possible.
  E) avoid working with those from tradition bound cultures.

Question 2

When adapting to business cultures, a sense of humor
 
  A) is inappropriate and unprofessionalbusin ess is no laughing matter.
  B) can help people move past awkward and embarrassing moments.
  C) is helpful unless you are in a management or executive position.
  D) is accepted and helpful in many cultures, but not in the U.S.
  E) will not help, since humor does not transfer from one culture to another.

[nmyers]

Answer to Question 1

Answer: A
Explanation: A) Business communicators can use the following four guidelines to improve their cultural competency: becoming aware of their biases; ignoring the Golden Rule; exercising tolerance, respect, and flexibility; and practicing and keeping a sense of humor.

Answer to Question 2

Answer: B
Explanation: B) Even the most committed and attuned business professionals can make mistakes in intercultural communication, so it's vital for all parties to be patient with one another. When you're adapting to any business culture, a sense of humor can help you move beyond awkward or embarrassing moments. If you make a mistake, apologize and, if appropriate, ask the other person to explain the accepted way; then, move on.