The global economy is changing the way things have been done in the past. We are no longer constrained by countries' borders and have become part of an interdependent, international network. One of the primary challenges of this new and dynamic environment is the need to communicate effectively with people from different cultures and in different languages.

And when dealing with people from a different culture it is sometimes simple mistakes that can ruin a relationship. You need to know that showing the soles of our shoes, giving the thumbs up sign or not taking the time to establish a personal relationship can lead to sometimes serious consequences.

It is widely recognized that cultural and linguistic skills are two of the most important areas of knowledge that an organizations' employees need to acquire if they are to integrate, progress and succeed in the global marketplace. To be successful in the business world today requires intercultural awareness and effective cross cultural communications skills.

Campbell-Westlind Associates LLC is an intercultural communications consultancy based outside Philadelphia. We offer cross cultural awareness training to multi-national corporations and international organizations whose employees plan to live and work abroad; to staff members who will work with colleagues overseas; and to individuals who will be traveling to another culture as tourists and would like to know more about locals customs.

Our presentations cover a wide range of topics including history, politics, geography, demography, customs, values, communication and management styles, negotiation techniques, decision-making, the adjustment process for the spouse and children and practical issues. Our training programs are designed to assist professionals and their families traveling overseas to quickly adjust to a new culture and to maximize their productivity by giving them an insight into life abroad.

Cross cultural communication is essential!