Directness & tone
Directness & tone rules within Cross-Cultural Virtual Etiquette.
Default to clear, respectful language
Use clear, respectful language and avoid sarcasm or idioms in global calls.
Reduces misinterpretation across languages and cultures.
Read moreAvoid public confrontation
Handle sensitive feedback privately and calmly; avoid public callouts.
Face-saving norms vary widely and public criticism can harm trust.
Read moreUse summaries to confirm shared understanding
Summarize key points and ask for confirmation to ensure alignment.
Accents, audio, and phrasing can cause missed nuances.
Read moreAvoid humor that can be misread
Be cautious with humor, irony, or teasing in mixed-cultural settings.
Tone doesn’t always translate well remotely.
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