Your boss wants to send a brief email message welcoming employees recently transferred to your department from your Hong Kong branch. They all speak English, but your boss asks you to review his message for clarity. What would you suggest your boss change in the following email message, and why? Would you consider this message to be audience centered? Why or why not? Revise the email so that it follows effective communication guidelines.
"I wanted to welcome you ASAP to our little family here in the States. It's high time we shook hands in person and not just across the sea. I'm pleased as punch about getting to know you all, and I for one will do my level best to sell you on America."
After researching cultural differences between the United States and Hong Kong, what advice would you give your boss?
Please repost when you have completed the assignment, even in rough draft. Then someone here will be able to help you with it.
=)
Not knowing their level of English, it would be the best to avoid acronyms (ASAP) and colloquialisms (pleased as punch, sell you and others). Also I believe they would be much more formal than this communication is. In fact, in almost any relationship, it is better to be more formal until you get to know each other better.
However, since this is not my area of expertise, I searched Google under the key words "'cultural differences' 'Hong Kong' 'United States' business" to get these possible sources:
http://www.amazon.com/Origins-Cultural-Differences-Impact-Management/dp/1567204392
http://www.cyborlink.com/besite/
In the future, you can find the information you desire more quickly, if you use appropriate key words to do your own search.
I hope this helps. Thanks for asking.
What are the differences between an internal proposal and an external proposal?
Reword sentence using active or passive voice.
A new office recycling program was set up by my supervisor.
Subject: Warm Welcome to the U.S. Department!
Dear Team,
I hope this email finds you well. I wanted to take a moment to extend a warm welcome to each of you who have recently joined us from our Hong Kong branch. We are delighted to have you on board and look forward to working together as a strong and cohesive team.
As you may already know, effective communication is the key to building successful and harmonious working relationships. With this in mind, I wanted to share some guidelines that will help us ensure clear and respectful communication:
1. Language: While we all speak English, it's important to be aware of potential differences in vocabulary and expressions between American English and Hong Kong English. Let's strive to be mindful of this and adapt accordingly, making sure our messages are easily understood by everyone.
2. Directness vs. Indirectness: In American culture, direct communication is often valued, emphasizing clarity and getting straight to the point. However, it's worth noting that in Hong Kong culture, indirectness and politeness are more common. Let's be understanding of these cultural differences and find a balance that respects both styles of communication.
3. Punctuality and Timeliness: In line with U.S. cultural norms, it is important for us to value punctuality, meeting deadlines, and respecting others' time. Let's strive to be prompt in our responses and make an effort to deliver our work within the agreed timeframes.
I encourage each of you to share any concerns or questions you may have regarding cultural differences or any other matters. We are all here to support each other and create a positive and inclusive work environment.
Once again, welcome to our department and the U.S. team. I am excited about the opportunity to work with each of you and achieve great things together.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
[Your Position]