IMPACT OF CULTURE ON WRITTEN COMMUNICATIONS

IMPACT OF CULTURE ON WRITTEN COMMUNICATIONS

Written communication is the art of correspondence. Written language is the vehicle of the cultural ethos of the country or region. Although it is a common practice to translate the written message in to the local language, it is well known a good translation requires mastery of both the languages and more importantly, a deep understanding of the cultures and cultural differences involved.

Although English has emerged as the language of business internationally, we do come across correspondence in French, Spanish, Chinese, Japanese, Arabic, Hindi, Urdu etc. It is a major challenge to translate the product catalogue, literature and advertisements in other languages. Besides, translations are required for documents relating to strategy, systems and procedure.
In the contemporary business scenario, people are learning foreign languages to bridge the gap between consumers and product offerings. Even so problems abound and until a good understanding of the cross cultural issues develops, constraints / impediments to communication across cultures would continue.

A few guidelines are:

(1) Use simple, short words
Select simple, short words that do not have multiple meanings.

(2) Rely on specific terms
Specific terms improve understanding. Avoid abstractions and illustrate with examples.

(3) Avoid slang, jargons and idioms
Slang, jargons and idioms do not translate well. Even abbreviations are not understood well across cultures; avoid them.

(4) Construct simple short sentences
Simple short sentences also improve comprehension compared with the long sentences one uses in language one is fluent in.

(5) Use short passages
Stick to the rule of one idea per passage and make it short.

(6) Use transitional devices to facilitate understanding train of thought
Use of transitional words like „In addition, besides, first, second, third etc‟ makes it easier for the reader / listener not conversant with the language.

(7) Use numbers and pre-printed forms
Wherever possible use numbers and pre-printed forms as they are easy to understand.

(8) Emphasize neatness in layout and presentation
Printers and publishers are using different colours for heading and adding other embellishments in printed, written matters to attract attention of readers and retain their interest by inducing them to read on.