Presenting in front of cross-cultural audiences

People often fear presenting in front of audiences that have a different value and non-verbal behavior. Due to this barrier, the presenter often feels nervous to express his/her ideas, fearing that the listener may not understand. In North America, it is considered normal to get the point across quickly. However, that is not the case across the globe.  

Some key points to consider when addressing cross-cultural audiences are: 

• When a translator or non-English speaking audiences is involved, be aware of your language and express your ideas in chunks to allow the interpreter time to translate.
• Participation is a must. Break your presentation into short, discrete segments, allowing your audience to engage in the presentation.  
• It is always important to know what the audience expect and connect your presentation and your nonverbal message to their expectation.
• European believes that people who often crack jokes, smile a lot, or laugh during a business presentation are distrusting, therefore avoid it. Instead, they like people who are serious.
• Preparing visual aids for the audiences is a sign that you value your audiences. 

Click on the below link for more information on the key to effective cross-cultural communication

http://www.commlabindia.com/effective-cross-cultural-communication-presentation/

Reference:

Mary Ellen Guffey, D. L. (2011). Business Communication Process & Product. Toronto: South-Western Cengage Learning.