Master the Art of
International Calling
In global business, how you call is just as important as what you say. Avoid cultural faux pas, master time zones, and ensure crystal-clear connection quality with StartACall.
Cultural Context in Calls
Different cultures have different expectations regarding silence, directness, and formality.
High vs. Low Context
Low Context (USA, Germany): Communication is explicit. "Yes" means yes. Get straight to the point.
High Context (Japan, Arab World): Communication is implicit. Read between the lines. Small talk is crucial before business.
The Power of Silence
In Western cultures, silence on a call feels awkward. In cultures like Japan or Finland, silence indicates thought and respect. Don't rush to fill the gap; you might interrupt their thinking process.
Hierarchy & Titles
Germany/France: Use titles (Herr/Madame) and surnames until invited to use first names.
USA/Australia: First names are often used immediately to establish friendliness.
The International Calling Playbook
The "Dos"
- Do double-check the time zone (use UTC).
- Do speak slightly slower than normal if language barriers exist.
- Do confirm the agenda in writing before the call.
- Do use a reliable VoIP service like StartACall to avoid drops.
- Do learn how to say 'Hello' and 'Thank you' in their language.
The "Don'ts"
- Don't assume everyone celebrates the same holidays.
- Don't use idioms or slang (e.g., 'hit it out of the park').
- Don't interrupt. In many cultures, this is highly offensive.
- Don't be late. Punctuality is sacred in Germany and Switzerland.
- Don't rely on WhatsApp for professional first-contact.
Etiquette Includes Quality
Nothing is more rude than a dropped call or poor audio during a negotiation. Demonstrate professionalism by using a high-quality connection.
Crystal clear audio ensures you don't miss nuances.
Low latency prevents awkward "talking over each other".
99.9% uptime means you are always there on time.