Observation of Team Behavior: Intercultural and Interpersonal Communication

All of us would have heard about the Israeli-Palestinian or the India-Pakistan conflict. Recently, the spate of attacks on Indian students in Australia has caused a furor. Improper communication causes further conflict, like the Mail Today’s cartoon showing a Victoria Police officer in a Klu Klux Klan hood which unfairly groups all Australians as racists. In today’s globalised world, cultural communication is essential. Personally, it is important for exchange programs, to study in an international university like NUS, and to interact with my teammates and friends.

Although I was the only Indian student in my class for a few years, I found many close friends there. However, there is a language barrier when people start talking in Hindi or Chinese among themselves, as I find it difficult to be involved in the conversation. In teamwork, nobody should feel left out. I try to be culturally sensitive and considerate towards people’s values. For instance, when I go to a Muslim friend’s house for Hari Raya, I dress appropriately so as not to offend anyone.

In Singapore, although there is commendable inter-cultural harmony, I feel more can be done to increase true understanding of each other’s cultures and values, rather than simply having surface knowledge about cultures’ celebrations, food and attire, and just practicing tolerance.

Interpersonal communication is important in teamwork. Communication is not solely verbal; non-verbal communication creates a big impression too. Our Signals, expressions and voice tone all play a part in our body language. Listening attentively and giving feedback shows your teammate that you care about what he or she has to say.

Without good interpersonal communication, conflicts arise in teams. Stereotyping and labeling the majority culture as the norm should be avoided so as to gain from the collective experiences and knowledge of a multi-cultural team.

Why are Effective Communication Skills Important to Me?

We live in a world where effective communication is essential for everyday life, be it school, work or our social lives, where we network with potential clients or hope to find that special someone. I believe effective communication is the key to attaining my goals, both personal and business. As human beings, we have an innate desire to interact with others, which is why communication is crucial.

Communication skills are important so as to avoid misunderstandings and inefficiency. Precious time and effort can be saved by being clear, concise and articulate and using the right gestures. In a job interview, effective communication is an important factor needed to clinch that dream job. It is also a decisive factor in choosing managers, which will help me stand out from many others who possess equally good grades.

Actively listening to what others are saying is just as important as speaking well when it comes to communication. According to studies, we remember only about 25-50% of what we hear! Improving my listening skills is crucial not only for being more productive at teamwork and workplace; it can also gain me lasting friendships and relationships.

The world encompasses a diverse group of people. The key to effective communication is to understand that not everyone will be able to see eye to eye about each issue, and to be accepting towards other’s opinions, which is important for teamwork. The background of the audience has to be kept in mind, so as to prevent miscommunication or offending anybody, and to give successful presentations.

Our words are a reflection of our character and a form given to our innermost thoughts. What I say or how I react can make or break a relationship or career, which makes communication of utmost importance to me.