Globalization And Communication Essay

Communication is more than just words. It is the method by which we connect with the world around us and transmit and receive information. The way that we communicate is the lifeline of all relationships and can make or break any relationship or situation. Culture derived from ethnicity, geographic location, nationality, family, and life experiences affect how we communicate and how we interpret the words and actions of others. Some examples of actions or behaviors that vary among different cultures are eye contact, touching, emotions, and even the use of the same words. For example, in some cultures, a loud burp at the dinner table is considered a compliment to the chef and the meal whereas in the United States, it is considered rude …show more content…
Globalization has created a wealth of new concerns regarding communication. Globalization is the integration of people, information, and resources on a continual basis. Globalization has steadily increased with the development and aid of modern technology. Current technology allows communication on an easier, much more expedient level and on a much broader geographical scale. This not only increases competition for business but largely creates opportunities by expanding access to cheaper or more effective products and resources. It provides more competitive options for the cost of goods and services needed for daily operations, including labor. The advancements in technology and increasing globalization efforts have led to labor outsourcing. Outsourcing is a method many companies have employed to reduce overhead costs. For example, if a company contracts a third party to make or assemble its products, it loses the overhead cost of possessing and maintaining the building and equipment necessary to produce these products. In addition to outsourcing manufacturing duties, outsourcing customer service has become a standard practice. One of the biggest complaints regarding experiences with customer service that had been outsourced to other countries is the major communication barrier. Although outsourcing may have been cheaper for the company, it was much less efficient for customers. I can recall my cellular company transitioning to outsourced customer service to a company outside of the United States. Hold times dramatically increased as calls were taking longer because of the communication barrier. I recall the frustration I felt after waiting on hold for never less than 30 minutes and usually very close to an hour, only to reach someone who didn’t understand me. The customer service agents could read and write the English language, however