Communication in a Multicultural Environment: Reflections from Brussels

Living and working in a multicultural environment like Brussels, home to over 150 nationalities, offers a unique and fascinating experience. At the European Commission, I interact with colleagues representing almost all 27 European Union member states. Each day is a learning experience as I adapt to different ways of communicating and understanding the intricacies of language, cultural norms, and unspoken assumptions.

The Role of Language and Communication in Belonging

Language is more than just words; it’s the bridge that connects us. But can our communication influence our sense of belonging within a team or an organization? In my experience, it absolutely does. Clear, inclusive communication fosters unity, while misunderstandings can create barriers, leaving individuals feeling excluded or disconnected.

Effective communication is not just about speaking the same language; it’s about being understood and making others feel included. It requires empathy, patience, and a willingness to listen to the nuances behind the words. In a diverse setting like mine, where every interaction involves different perspectives and values, communication becomes an art form. It goes beyond words. Facial expressions, gestures, and tone of voice all contribute to how messages are received and interpreted.

Inclusive Communication Across Cultures

So how do we communicate in a way that makes everyone feel included, irrespective of their background, nationality, contractual status, identity, or belief? It begins with active listening and genuine curiosity about the person you’re speaking with. Understanding where they come from—both literally and figuratively—helps bridge cultural divides. It’s also about being mindful of how we convey information.

In Edward Hall’s book Beyond Culture, he explores how different cultures rely on high-context or low-context communication. High-context cultures, such as those in Asia, Africa, and Latin America, rely heavily on nonverbal cues and the context surrounding the message. In contrast, low-context cultures, like those in Germany or the United States, value explicit and direct communication, where the meaning is laid out clearly.

Communicating in High-Context and Low-Context Cultures

When I interact with colleagues from high-context cultures, I pay attention not only to their words but also to their body language, facial expressions, and tone. Often, much of the message is “between the lines” rather than being directly stated. Conversely, with colleagues from low-context cultures, I focus on clarity and precision, ensuring every detail is spelled out to avoid misunderstandings.

In high-context environments, loyalty and long-term relationships are emphasized, often leaving unwritten rules to guide interactions. On the other hand, in low-context cultures, communication tends to create shorter-term relationships and set clearly defined expectations.

Neither approach is inherently better, but understanding these differences can prevent misunderstandings and make communication more effective. For example, while a German colleague might prefer straightforward feedback, a Greek colleague may value a more indirect, nuanced approach.

Expressing Yourself and Being Heard

In such a diverse landscape, one of the most challenging yet rewarding aspects is finding your voice and ensuring it’s heard. Amid different languages, accents, and information-processing styles, expressing yourself clearly and respectfully is crucial. The key is to adapt without losing your authenticity.

I’ve found that the NLP (Neuro-linguistic Programming) technique of mirroring, or subtly reflecting the body language and communication style of the person I’m speaking with, can be helpful. This technique creates rapport and signals that I’m tuned in to their way of expressing themselves. But it’s not just about technique, it’s also about a mindset shift.

Communicating with the intent to understand, rather than simply to respond, fosters a more inclusive and respectful environment.

The Impact of Values on Communication

How we communicate reflects our values and, in turn, impacts others. If we value openness, we’re more likely to encourage dialogue and invite different perspectives. Conversely, if we’re more reserved, our communication may be more formal or restrained, which can be misinterpreted by others. Our own cultural lens inevitably shows how we interact with others, so self-awareness is key.

It’s also important to recognize how our communication influences those around us. When we are inclusive, we create a safe space for others to express themselves, contributing to a more cohesive, harmonious environment.

What About You?

Reflecting on your own communication style, which cultural context do you feel most aligned with—high-context or low-context? And what techniques do you use to ensure effective communication across cultural boundaries?

Whether you’re working in a multicultural setting or simply interacting with people from diverse backgrounds, remember that communication is a dynamic and evolving process. The more we learn about each other’s styles, values, and perspectives, the better we can navigate the complexities of our interconnected world.

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